Lakefield Herald Special Report

Free concert launches Children’s Stage Lakefield’s 25th season

Children’s Stage Lakefield is proud to announce an exciting line-up for the 2010-11 season, which also marks the organization’s 25th anniversary.

Incoming Chair Chris Ferguson notes, “This is an important milestone for an organization begun by parents who wanted to expose their children to the performing arts by bringing the artists here.

“Their vision continues to inspire area children – my kids love the Children’s Stage shows. We’ve had ballet and opera, theatre and puppetry, concerts and more. Often the kids in the audience are dancing in the aisles, and they always get to ask the performers questions.”

To celebrate the anniversary and thank the community, the first show of the season will be a free outdoor event suitable for all ages. On Sunday, September 19 at 3:00 p.m., Junkyard Symphony will perform in Isabel Morris Park (next to the Lakefield Marina and just behind the arena).

Ottawa-based Junkyard Symphony is an “eco-entertainment” group that performs an amazing junk percussion/comedy/circus show.

Since 1991, Junkyard Symphony has been reusing junk materials to create radical rhythms, clownish comedy and plenty of audience participation.

Rhythm is a language everyone speaks, and recycling is an important environmental message that comes with the show. (Note: In case of rain, this event will be held at Ridpath Public School.)

This season kick-off is sure to be a high-energy act that the kids will love! See www.junkyardsymphony.com

REGULAR SEASON

Robert Morgan will perform “Morgan’s Journey” on October 3 at 4:00 p.m. at Lakefield College School.

This classic play has been delighting children and families around the world for nearly three decades.

The story is a captivating exploration of joyous yet challenging childhood experiences and offers audiences a unique opportunity for active participation.

From the moment of his birth, we follow Morgan the Clown on a journey of discovery. Encountering inevitable growing pains, Morgan learns a valuable and moving lesson about love and the true meaning of friendship.

Morgan’s Journey remains the longest-running touring play in Canada.

Gonrah Desgohwah White Pine Dancers will present “Concrete Path” on January 30, 2011 at 4:00 p.m. at Lakefield College School.

Thundering drums, vibrant, flowing regalia, traditional dances and stories that have been passed down for generations are all part of the performance.

Audience members are invited to learn social dances, as well as participate in First Nations storytelling.

For the final show of the 2010-11 season, BC-based Axis Theatre will present “King Arthur’s Kitchen” on May 15, 2011 at 4:00 p.m. at Lakefield District Secondary School.

Down in the underbelly of King Arthur’s castle, behind the skillets, behind the salad bowl, behind the cauldron, the stories of Arthur’s adventures and how he became king are revealed – or are they?

Knights, damsels in distress, great feats of daring and heroics and a knife that just won’t come out of the birthday cake all play a part in a smorgasbord of wildly imaginative tales.

SEASON TICKET INFORMATION

While there is no charge to attend the Junkyard Symphony show, tickets for the rest of the season will be available for sale that day (Sept. 19).

A season ticket, good for the three remaining performances, is just $25, which works out to less than the cost of going to the movies.

This is a great value when you consider the price of attending performances by nationally recognized artists in Toronto or elsewhere.

Children’s Stage Lakefield gratefully acknowledges grant support from the Ontario Arts Council, which has helped to keep ticket prices affordable over the years. Season tickets may also be purchased in advanced by calling Chris Ferguson at (705) 652-9416.

ABOUT CHILDREN’S STAGE LAKEFIELD:

Children’s Stage Lakefield is a non-profit, volunteer-run organization that has been bringing the performing arts to area children for 25 years. Visit www.childrenstage.org

Volunteers are always needed – consider getting involved in this low-commitment, rewarding activity that kids love.

Information Contact: Laura Gaughan, Past Chair, tel (705) 652-9333 or by email: lauragaughan@sympatico.ca.

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