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Bashaw to stage Big River performance

Did you know that the Mississippi River will soon flow through Alberta?
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Coleman Miller as Tom Sawyer and Wes Wilson as Huckleberry Finn plan their “bully” adventures in the Big River musical. Both actors had lead roles in Klaglahachie’s recent “Joseph” production in Ponoka.

Submitted by Perry Wilson

Did you know that the Mississippi River will soon flow through Alberta? Well, sort of…

Director Lori Kirchner and musical director Robin King of Ponoka have honed their talented cast and crew of more than 50 to a fine pitch. These dedicated people from Bashaw, Ponoka, Lacombe and New Norway are presenting Big River, the musical theatre production of Mark Twain’s story of Huckleberry Finn that won awards on Broadway.

Kirchner is thrilled at how well the dress rehearsals are going — guaranteeing great entertainment for all ages. You will laugh; you’ll be touched by tender, poignant moments; you’ll be excited by the action; your ears will be treated to beautiful harmony and songs of love, sorrow, humour and freedom.

Theatre-goers in central Alberta are familiar with Miller’s many productions: Oklahoma, Jesus Christ Superstar, Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, A Christmas Carol, Tom Sawyer, Annie, Alice in Wonderland, and many more.

“I am just so privileged to be involved in community theatre,” Kirchner said.

“I get to see ordinary people grow and flourish as actors/singers/dancers, but more importantly, I love being involved with their triumph over self-imposed shyness. Before long they can deliver lines on cue, make accurate entries and exits, and perform complicated choreographic routines while singing beautifully.

“Honestly, I can’t tell you enough about how fun it is to see these actors of all ages coming together as a group. Everyone is equal; they can laugh at their own and each other’s mistakes — no one is judgmental — and everyone puts in a supreme effort so both the actors and the audience have fun.”

Big River depicts the adventures of Huck and runaway slave Jim, as they escape down the Mississippi on a raft — including hilarity, danger, love and reconciliation. It’s definitely a “must see.”

Presented by Bashaw Adult Learning and Bashaw United Church, the musical plays at the Bashaw United Church April 15 to 18, and 23 to 25. For tickets call 780-372-3648 (or email northey.jackie@gmail.com).