Teens are in the spotlight on 2 stages this weekend

5/15/2008

Two shows about teens hit local and area stages tomorrow.

Luann, a musical based on the cartoon by Greg Evans, will be presented by the teen company of Toledo's Children's Theatre Workshop.

Adapted for the stage by Eleanor and Ray Harder, the story revolves around the title character, who is convinced that heartthrob Aaron Hill would invite her to the school dance if he only knew she exists. To remedy that oversight, Luann tries out for cheerleader, with surprising results.

Other characters in the show include best friend Bernice, wise-cracking Delta; annoying big brother Brad; Darlene, Brad's girlfriend; Gunther the nerd; school counselor Miss Phelps, whose advice is incomprehensible; Miss Allison, a young, popular teacher; and Mr. Fogarty, the English teacher and aspiring novelist.

The entire production, from cast to crew to other technical support, is handled by CTW students ages 10-18 representing communities such as Toledo, Sylvania, Maumee, Northwood, Holland, and Bowling Green.

The teen company of Children's Theatre Workshop presents "Luann" at 8 p.m. tomorrow and 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday in Chapel Theater of the Collingwood Arts Center, 2413 Collingwood Blvd. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and seniors. Information: 419-244-5061.

The Monroe Community Players present Disney's High School Musical this weekend in the southwest Michigan community.

Midge Dionne directs the show, based on the Disney Channel's mega-hit series about East High School, where the spheres of influence are run by certain students, including Troy Bolton, the star basketball player, and siblings Sharpay and Ryan Evans, who have starred in every school musical anyone can remember. Into this mix comes brainiac Gabriella Montez, a new student who catches Troy's eye. To the shock of everyone, they decide to audition for the school musical. What will Troy's teammates do? How will Taylor McKessie, captain of the Scholastic Decathlon Team, get Gabriella to focus on the quiz competition? And what will the Evans siblings do if their time in the spotlight is threatened?

Songs in the show include "Start of Something New," "Get'cha Head in the Game," "What I've Been Looking For," and "We're All in This Together."

Disney's High School Musical runs at 8 p.m. tomorrow and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday in Meyer Theater of the La-Z-Boy Center at Monroe County Community College, 1555 South Raisinville Rd., Monroe. Tickets are $18 for adults and $15 for seniors (60 and older) and children (12 and younger). Information: 734-241-7900.

Contact Nanciann Cherry at: ncherry@theblade.com

or 419-724-6130.