HSRT's Children's Performance Troupe series announces extensions

Posted: July 31, 2012 at 12:05 a.m.

HOLLAND - Hope Summer Repertory Theatre announces performance extensions of "Diary of a Worm, a Spider, and a Fly" and "Junie B. Jones in Jingle Bells Batman Smells!" "Diary of a Worm, a Spider, and a Fly" added performances are Thursday, Aug. 2 and Tuesday, Aug. 7 at 10:30 a.m., and "Junie B. Jones in Jingle Bells Batman Smells!" added performances are Saturday, Aug. 4 and Monday Aug., 6 at 10:30 a.m. Both shows are performed in the Studio Theatre inside of the DeWitt Cultural Center.

"Diary of a Worm, a Spider, and a Fly" is the coolest-ever rock 'n' roll romp in a bug's world, capturing all the droll humor and whimsy of these wildly popular books. This production is a musical experience for all who enjoy cutesy comedy, memorable tunes, animate imagination, and spirited entertainment. Set on the Earth's surface of the animal world, the crawling characters intermingle despite their diverse personality types: an insecure worm wants to matter, an overly-confident spider wants to grow up, and an energetic fly wants to be a superhero. These itsy-bitsy creatures are "A Lot Like You" because they want to accomplish "Big Things" and discover who they truly are. The moments of laughter and music remind audience members that there is strength in individuality and a greater purpose for all.

The seven-member cast introduces Jesse Swatling-Holcomb as Worm and first time HSRT members Steven Johnson as Spider, Hannah Richter as Fly, Alyssa Magarian as Mrs. McBee, Christina Ramirez as Butterfly, Jacob Golliher as Ant, and Kaija von Websky as Flight Instructor/Grandma Spider/Aunt Rita.

"Junie B. Jones in Jingle Bells Batman Smells!" takes place in Junie B. Jones' world, where things are very clear – Christmas means you get presents, elf costumes are awesome, and May is a blabbermouth tattletale. Things are going well until Junie B. pulls May as her Secret Santa! This production is an absolute treat for all ages, providing a wonderful taste of Christmas in July. This show is also a 20th anniversary celebration of Barbara Park's classic children's novels as they jump off the page and come to life on stage. Audiences will relish in holiday jingles, playful comedy, and the value of giving.

The eight-member cast features HSRT company members Kaija von Websky as Junie B., Christoff Visscher as Mr. Scary, Lydia Blickley as Lucille, Kara Williams as May, Alyssa Magarian as Mrs. Toot/Elf Ellen, T.J. Wagner as Herb, John Telfer as Sheldon/Philip Johnny Bob, and Jacob Golliher as Jose.

Take advantage of Hope Summer Repertory Theatre's great ticket packages. The Children's Package is for children under the age of 12, and includes both children's shows and one main stage musical for $25, a savings $11 off of the individual ticket price. The Adult CPT package includes both children's shows and one main stage musical for $40, a savings of $16. The Adult CPT Bonus package includes both children's shows and two main stage shows for $60, a savings of $26.

Packages and individual tickets are now on sale by calling 616-395-7890 or by visiting the DeWitt Theatre (141 East 12th St.) and DeVos Fieldhouse (222 Fairbanks Ave.) ticket offices.

Children's Performance Troupe tickets are $12.

The HSRT ticket offices are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; on Saturdays they open at noon. On performance dates, the DeWitt Ticket Office will be open through intermission of evening performances.

For more information, visit www.hope.edu/hsrt.