A new school year means new theatre productions. All across the city, young actors and actresses will be warming up their vocal cords, and dusting of their dancing shoes to get ready for a new season of theater. One show this year however, will be extra special.
The musical Prom Queen made its long awaited debut Friday Sept.21st. After a history of turmoil with the London Catholic School Board, the project received its funding in February, has been put on at the Grand Theatre.
The project would work in tandem with the Grand Theatre’s High School Project. This initiative partners local students with professional directors, coaches, set designers, and many more departments. This project has put on a total of 33 total shows in its run, including hits like Les Misérables and Evita.
Grand Theatre Artistic Director Dennis Garnham says this production was a very unique one to work on.
“We treat them like young professionals. And what’s exciting about this one in particular, is that its a true life story.”
Part of the uniqueness of Prom Queen is that it is an all Canadian musical. It was also partly developed with the Sheridan’s Musical Theatre program. Musical Director Andrew Petrasiunas wants people to know that Canadian Musicals are alive and well.
“I hope that people realize that we have the talent in this country to do this sort of work.”
The importance of this show to the LGBTQ community can’t be understated. Bradley Amesse plays Lonnie Wynne in the show, and hopes that when people come to this show, they can really learn the importance of equality in our society.
“I hope people take away the fact that equality is something that we all need in the world. Labels can’t define who a human really is- we’re all different.”
The Grand Theatre is running shows of Prom Queen through to the 29th.
