Tree House Youth Theatre is promising an afternoon of delightful entertainment via its first-ever spring tea and fundraiser set for May 14.
A Smackeral of Something Sweet runs from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Scott Block Theatre.
Actors will present several different theatrical presentations in various forms, said Matt Gould, artistic director of Tree House. There will also be a raffle and refreshments. “It’s a compilation to show what Tree House is about. It’s going to be really fun, and we’d like to make it a signature event.”
Tree House Youth Theatre is a non-profit organization that has been providing performing arts training for youth and live productions in Red Deer since 1988. Youth ages six to 17 are invited to participate.
Besides raising funds for program expansion, Gould said A Smackeral of Something Sweet is also about building awareness about Tree House Youth Theatre. He’s also interested in building the scholarship program so a certain number of kids can be included who wouldn’t normally be able to.
Productions over the years have included award-winning performances in the Kiwanis Performing Arts Festival and one act plays as well as You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Alice in Wonderland, Santa and the Wicked Wazoo, The Magic Toy Shop, Ernie’s Incredible Illucinations, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast and Fiddler on the Roof, Jr.
For Gould, it continues to be a fantastic creative journey.
“I hope the way in which I work is inspiring and liberating for them. As I develop my own skills, I see what I want to change as well. It’s really about letting them relax and be themselves and feel safe.”
Following the fundraiser, Tree House Youth Theatre’s next venture is the world-premiere of Last Known Position – inspired by Lord of the Flies. Gould said their version of this classic tale takes place in the Northwest Territories. A plane filled with young eco tourists crashes in the wilderness. Will these city-raised children be able to survive in the hostile boreal forest?
The production runs at the Scott Block June 2-4. Curtain is 7:30 p.m. A matinee runs June 4 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $17.50 for adults and $14.50 for students/seniors. Due to some language and the seriousness of the story, this tale is better suited to 12 and over.
Meanwhile, tickets for A Smackeral of Something Sweet are $40 ($30 of which will be a charitable donation). They are available at www.ticketcentraloutlet.ca or by calling 403-347-0800.
For more information, check out www.treehouseyouththeatre.ca.
mweber@reddeerexpress.com
