It’s time to hit the seven seas for the start of the 2012-13 Kids Series at the Vernon Performing Arts Centre.
The series, which includes four family-friendly productions including theatre, music and dance, starts Sunday with Aladdin: The Secret Voyage.
Produced by Victoria’s Story Theatre Company, don’t expect a blue genie with the voice of Robin Williams to pop out of a magic lamp, a monkey or even Jasmine to show up, as this theatrical production provides a new take on the story of Aladdin in a blending of tales from the Arabian Nights.
Yes, there’s a genie, and a magic carpet, but there’s also an enchanted island inhabited by a powerful witch of the seas, and a sea voyage –– all part of this magical retelling of these great stories.
Through a combination of puppetry, acting and storytelling, Aladdin: the Secret Voyage tells the story of Aladdin’s journey to recover the magic lamp, his search to find his missing father, and their adventure to free themselves from a curse.
“It’s a new adventure for Aladdin,” said performer Erin Michell. “Nobody’s ever seen it before.”
Founded in 1981 by Victoria actor Jim Leard, who appears in Aladdin (played by Izad Etemadi), as Sinbad the Sailor and other roles, Story Theatre Company has toured across North America sharing its unique fusion of storytelling, music and games in performances that are both entertaining and educational.
“I love getting to perform for kids,” said Michell, “We get to make them laugh.”
In addition to the story itself, the performance features music and storytelling games which lift the performance beyond the ordinary, making it a truly memorable event that will keep young audiences enthralled and entertained.
One Direction and Lady Gaga fans will want to stay tuned.
Kids will also want to stay tuned to the other three productions in the VPAC’s Kids Series.
Next up is Monster Theatre’s A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens’ classic tale with puppets, songs and dance, coming to the centre on Dec. 9. On March 10 is Quebec company Bouge de la’s The Studio, which explores colour, lines and movement in a creative blend of dance and visual art.
Juno award winning Canadian children’s entertainer Norman Foote wraps up the series, performing on April 14.
All shows takes the stage twice at 2 and 4 p.m., and single tickets are $12 per person (member discounts are available.) Series subscriptions for all four shows are also available for $36, which includes a bonus show (TBA) to be held in the summer.
Tickets and subscriptions are available at the Ticket Seller box office in the VPAC. Call 250-549-7469 or visit www.ticketseller.ca.
