By Joel Langton
The 830 Times
Area youth will have the chance to shine on stage this summer as the Missoula Children’s Theatre brings its original adaptation of Hansel and Gretel to the Del Rio Civic Center.
Auditions for the production are set for Monday, June 9, from 10:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. in the Civic Center’s Red Oak Room. All students entering first through 12th grade are encouraged to participate.
The week of production will culminate with a 6:30 p.m. performance on Friday, June 13, at the Civic Center. Tickets are $5, cash only, and children 5 and under are free.
The touring company, known for producing full-scale musicals in just one week, will cast up to 60 local children to perform in the show. No advance preparation or prior experience is necessary. Directors from Missoula Children’s Theatre will lead participants through a week of rehearsals, culminating in two public performances showcasing the community’s young talent, said Nancy O’Brien, executive director of the Del Rio Council for the Arts.
“We are excited to welcome Missoula Children’s Theatre back to Del Rio,” O’Brien said. “This is a fantastic chance for kids to explore acting, build confidence and experience the magic of live theater in a supportive environment.”
Rehearsals will begin immediately after auditions on Monday afternoon and continue throughout the week. Selected cast members will be expected to attend daily sessions, with schedules varying based on their role. In addition to the cast, several assistant directors will be chosen from the audition group to help with stage management and backstage tasks, O’Brien said.
This year’s production of Hansel and Gretel offers a whimsical twist on the classic fairy tale, complete with unique characters, catchy songs and colorful costumes. MCT’s version expands the story beyond the witch’s house, introducing creatures and challenges that help the siblings learn the value of courage and cooperation.
