Stuart Little,' a little mouse in a big world
SUSSEX Tri-State Actors Theater presents its 20th Summer Intern Program season in the historic Crescent Theater, Sussex. This summer’s Intern Company presentation, based on E.B. White’s tale, is “Stuart Little,” the musical, which will run from Aug. 1 through Aug. 11. The story has been adapted for the stage by Joseph Robinette, with music by Ronna White and lyrics by Joseph Robinette and Ronna White. All performances will be held at 74 Main St., Sussex, in Tri-State’s air-conditioned and handicapped-accessible theater. The many adventures - both big and small - of Stuart Little are brought to life in this story-theatre presentation. The acting ensemble plays many human and animal roles in a series of scenes that make up the maneuverings of a mild-mannered mouse trying to survive in a “real people’s world.” From melodic ballads to chorus numbers, the score by England’s Ronna Frank features songs such as “Paddle Your Own Canoe,” “Feed Him Up,” “Size,” “Stuart Little,” “I’m Headed in the Right Direction” and “Nighttime in New York” (sung by a quartet of cats). This season’s Intern Company includes: Dallas Haines, of Sussex, N.J.; Alexis Alemy, Jonathon Dragon and Jackie Torres, of Wantage, N.J.; Alexa Ross, of Glenwood, N.J.; Josh Ernst, of Branchville, N.J.; Amanda Martino, of Hardyston, N.J.; Raquel Warehime, of Sparta, N.J.; and Emma Delia and Allison Dethmers of Warwick. The interns spend their three weeks of rehearsal time learning theater and acting techniques from director, Paul Meacham. Music director Jim Blanton, of Port Jervis, provides musical training and keyboard accompaniment throughout the run, assisted by Christopher Lance. Choreographer Melissa Pisarri of Milford, Pa., assisted by Katherine Kreisher, works with the younger performers on movement and dance. Shows will be given as follows: First week - Friday at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.; Saturday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Second week - Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m.; Friday at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.; and Saturday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. An autograph session follows each performance. Children under 3 and under are free, but require a ticket. Tickets are $7 for ages 4 to 11; $10 for ages 12 and over. Reservations are recommended for all performances. Large print programs, wheelchair access and elevator service are available for patrons with special needs. Main St. parking is limited and patrons are encouraged to use the free municipal parking lot on Harrison St., directly behind the theater. Funding for Tri-State Actors Theater has been made possible in part by a grant from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts and the generous support of the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation. Additional information about Tri-State Actors Theater and its programs and services are available on the Web at www.tristateactorstheater.org. For tickets, information and special services, call the Box Office at 973-875-2950.