MSSU News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 8, 2008

(Left to right): Lacy Smith, Kent Phillips, Heather Freelend

JOPLIN, MO (SNS) - Missouri Southern State University will mark its 39th year of Children’s Theatre with the production of Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach. Directed by Pam Claussen, the work was adapted for the stage by David Wood.

The play will be presented at 2:30 p.m., April 19 - 20 at Taylor Performing Arts Center at Missouri Southern.

Over almost four decades, over 100,000 children have enjoyed the productions, both on weekends and when the plays are performed for schools in the Four-State area.

"Many of the original members of the Show-Me-Celebration Company have mentioned to me over the years they are so proud of the work they did. It is not uncommon for a university student to brag about seeing productions here as a child," said Director Pam Claussen.

"The children have been seeing quality productions for nearly 40 years and we hope to have a long future ahead,” Claussen adds.

In the play, orphan James is sent to live with his aunts after his parents are killed in an accident involving a rhino, but the aunt treats him horribly. One day, an old man gives him a bag containing the strongest magic in the world. When he accidentally spills it near an old peach tree, the most marvelous things happen, and James’ adventures begin.

Admission is $1 for adults and $0.50 for children 12 and under. (Sorry, no free passes are accepted for Children's Theatre shows.) Tickets may be reserved between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday at (417) 625-3190.

Accommodations for disabilities should be made at least 72 hours prior to the production. For theatre production information or requests for accommodations related to a disability, call Terri Spencer at (417) 625-9393.

Cast of Southern Theatre's James and the Giant Peach, April 19 - 20, 2008, Taylor Performing Arts Center, MSSU

MISSOURI
Carthage
Brandi Hoofnagel
Junior
Theatre

Duenweg
Ashley Trotnic
Freshman
Theatre Education

Joplin
Kent Phillps
Sophomore
Theatre

Neosho
Zack Self
Junior
Theatre

Noel
Lacy Smith
Freshman
Theatre

Reeds Springs
Kelsy Amann
Junior
Theatre

Sarcoxie
Heather Freelend
Senior
English Education

Seneca
Kyle Grover
Freshman
Theatre

OKLAHOMA
Miami
Brett Hecksher
Sophomore
Undeclared

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