OSKALOOSA’S “SECRET GARDEN” OF TALENT
Auditions for “The Secret Garden’ were held on Monday afternoon at George Daily Auditorium.
OSKALOOSA, IA — In Oskaloosa for the 13th consecutive year, the Missoula Children’s Theatre will spend this week working with Oskaloosa students to put on a production of The Secret Garden.
The touring directors arrived with a set, lights, costumes, props and make-up, everything it takes to put on a play – except the actors! The team held an open audition on January 14th and cast 60 local students from kindergarten through 12th grade to perform and assist with the production. The show is rehearsed throughout the week with two public performances on Saturday, January 19th. All Missoula shows are original adaptations of classic children’s stories and fairytales. Creativity, social skills, goal achievement, communication skills and self-esteem are all characteristics that are attained through participation in this unique educational project.
“Missoula is a stellar experience for our youth,” says Andy McGuire, youth theatre director at the Daily. “This production is a blend of real world theatre, a way to build confidence, and a showcase of our community’s talent.”
The Secret Garden is a joyful retelling of a story of hope and celebration and all good things in life. Mistress Mary Quite Contrary embarks on a journey from India to her uncle’s home in England. Along the way she makes friends with the hilarious Canadian Geese and the colorful Giant Bugs that Rock! In time she learns to appreciate everything around her, including the Moor Animals and the helpful Fireflies. Add to that a good healthy dose of caring, and what happens? Colin, Martha, Archibald – well, the whole household – begin to enjoy the return of health and happiness in a garden carefully tended… until it blossoms once more.
Performances for The Secret Garden will be at the George Daily Auditorium on Saturday, January 19th at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets cost $4 for students and $8 for adults and are available by calling (641) 672-0799 or online at www.georgedaily.org. Avoid the line at the box office – get yours in advance!
