By Lynn Hodge
Special to the Record
The Comox Valley Youth Music Centre (CYMC) is extremely excited to present this year鈥檚 Musical Theatre production The Prom, the hilarious, joyous, and heartwarming hit Broadway musical, at the Sid Williams Theatre July 18-22.
The artistic trio of director Lori Mazey, musical director Carol Anne Parkinson, and choreographer Lindsay Sterk are teaming up once again to entertain audiences, after having successfully showcased youthful talent in 2022鈥檚 Newsies. Producer and theatre veteran Shari Jakubiec heads up an exceptional production team of all ages.
There are more than 50 youth participants both appearing on stage and working behind the scenes. Twenty-four of the performers are local, while the rest are from all parts of B.C. and Alberta for this three-week musical theatre program.
Why should audiences see this show?
鈥�The Prom is warm and funny, with some quirky characters, catchy tunes and just the right dash of jazz hands,鈥� says long-time CYMC supporter and award-winning photographer Karen McKinnon.
鈥淭his is a timely production for our community,鈥� says CYMC parent, Kimberley Allan. 鈥淭he story beautifully captures a universal truth 鈥� we all want a place to belong.鈥�
Jared Atkin, who has performed with CYMC since 2015 and plays Juilliard-trained actor Trent Oliver in The Prom, says 鈥淵ou won鈥檛 want to miss this beautiful show about love and growing up.鈥�
The Prom was inspired by real-life events that unfolded in Fulton Mississippi when the school board cancelled the prom rather than allowing Constance McMillan to attend with her girlfriend. This show is a perfect vehicle for the artistic team who all foster a nurturing, welcoming environment when running their performing arts programs.
The Prom is full of memorable characters, upbeat dance numbers and wonderful music which will be performed by a live pit orchestra led by Parkinson. Set designer Jay Crowder and head set builder Bruce Taylor have created yet another set extraordinaire which allows the characters and the story to move through multiple locations seamlessly.
Be sure to catch local thespians including Adelie Simson as diva Dee Dee Allen, Sarah Dolman as Broadway hoofer Angie Dickinson, and Raleigh Fisher as the endearing Emma Nolan along with an incredible cast as they dance and sing their way into your heart.
Tickets are on sale at the Sid Williams Theatre; buy your tickets early so as not to be disappointed. Evening shows at 7:30 p.m., are July 18-22 and one matinee at 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 22. Call the Sid at 250-338-2430 or go to www.sidwilliamstheatre.com
