News Summary
Columbia is set to showcase a vibrant array of local talent this summer with engaging theatrical productions running through August. The events feature popular shows like ‘Cheaper by the Dozen’, ‘Once Upon a Mattress’, and ‘Moana Jr.’, promising a rich experience for theater enthusiasts of all ages. From classic fairy tales to family-friendly adaptations, there’s something for everyone, making it a must-see season for the community.
Summer Theatrical Productions Shine in Columbia
Columbia is set to showcase a vibrant array of local talent in summer theatrical productions, featuring several engaging shows across multiple venues. The events commence this month and continue through August, promising a rich experience for theater enthusiasts of all ages.
The Broadway Bound Vista Theatre Project is kicking off the summer festivities with performances of “Cheaper by the Dozen” from July 17 to 20 at the Cardinal Newman School Performing Arts Center. Directed by Dedra Daniels Mount, the production follows the Gilbreth family, whose adventures highlight the humorous chaos that ensues when children live under the care of efficiency expert parents.
Another production to look forward to is the Chapin Theatre Company’s “Once Upon a Mattress,” which will run from July 17 to July 27 at Harbison Theatre. Under the direction of Mary Jo Johnson, this adaptation features Maggie Baker as Princess Winnifred, adding a twist to the classic fairy tale.
For younger audiences, the Workshop Theatre will present “Beetlejuice Jr.” from June 19 to 22 at Columbia College’s Cottingham Theatre, directed by Julian DeLeon. This show brings a family-friendly version of Tim Burton’s story to life, promising fun and thrills.
Additionally, Town Theatre will host “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” from July 11 to 24, under the direction of Shannon Scruggs, while the Columbia Children’s Theatre revives “Wicked of Oz: A Comic Fable” on July 12 and 13 at Richland Library – Sandhills.
Students from Columbia Children’s Theatre will also present “Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka” from July 25 to August 3 at C.A. Johnson High School, providing an entertaining performance based on the beloved children’s book. Meanwhile, the Village Square Theatre is set to showcase “Alice in Wonderland Jr.” from July 20 to 27, directed by David LaTorre, offering a whimsical journey through the classic story.
Soda City Theatre will make its debut with “Moana Jr.” from July 23 to 27 at the Lexington 2 Performing Arts Center, bringing the beloved Disney tale to the local stage. In the backdrop of these performances, Trustus Theatre will present “Elton John and Tim Rice’s Aida” from June 20 to July 26, a poignant tale of love and fate set against the backdrop of ancient Egypt.
The summer fun doesn’t end with Columbia, as the Moses Lake High School prepares for a later production of “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical”, scheduled to run from November 15 to 19. This musical explores the life of Percy Jackson, a teenager discovered to be a demigod, navigating the complexities of adolescence and mythical challenges.
Directed by Sharon Winningham, this show is particularly exciting as it features Kaleb Stanberry in his inaugural role as Percy Jackson, alongside Trenton Busching, who plays Grover, and Sophia Villalpando as Annabeth. The performances are set for November 15-16 at 7 p.m., a matinee on November 16 at 2 p.m., and evening shows on November 18-19 at 7 p.m.
With a diverse lineup of performances drawing on local talent, Columbia’s summer theatrical season promises to be an enriching experience for all community members and supporters of the performing arts.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Children’s Theater in Columbia
- Google Search: Columbia theater productions 2024
- Columbia Spectator: Musical Theater Insights
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Theater
- Columbia Tribune: Summer Theater Shows
- Google Scholar: Theater productions Columbia
- The New Yorker: Conflict Theatre Troupe
- Google News: Columbia theater productions 2024
- Post and Courier: Columbia SC Theater Review
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