The Auburn Players Community Theatre will present seven diverse productions for its 2008-2009 season in Auburn.
In early September, the Auburn Players' Youth Theatre opens the 48th season with the wacky, fun-filled musical "Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, Jr." at Cayuga Community College and under the direction of Eliza Hunt of Weedsport.
Later that month, the Auburn Players' Second Stage will again produce original plays for the Original Short Play Festival at the Auburn Public Theatre. As a community theatre the Auburn Players have felt an obligation to partner with area citizens in programs and workshops. For the festival we welcome first-time playwrights and veteran writers alike.
The original Christmas play "Carry on Santa" is about Santa's upcoming retirement and answers the question of who will carry on the gift giving and spreading of good will each year. This family play was written by and will be directed by Barbara Murphy of Auburn. It is available for early December bookings to groups and businesses.
In January of 2009 the powerful award-winning drama "Our Country's Good", set in a penal colony in 18th century Australia, will be brought to life by first-time director Jason Manning of Auburn. This adult play touches on the themes of justice and redemption.
A Valentine's treat is in store February at the Auburn Public Theatre when award winning Auburn director, Bourke Kennedy, brings the cabaret-style musical "Closer Than Ever" to Auburn. The Auburn Players will pair with local restaurants to offer dinner and theatre for a memorable evening of love.
The Auburn Players brings Shakespeare back to Auburn in April with "Much Ado About Nothing", the comedy about mixed matched lovers. Jamie Bruno of Auburn, an avid Shakespeare enthusiast and director of the much acclaimed "The Tempest" at Auburn Public Theatre two years ago, will direct. He continues to be active with the Syracuse Shakespeare Festival.
Dia Carabajal of Auburn will direct "Oliver" in June. This musical is based on the Charles Dickens' novel, "Oliver Twist". Dia directed this musical for the Players eighteen years ago and is looking forward to working with a whole new generation of children when this season's final show opens at Cayuga Community College.
For more information contact Bourke Kennedy at bourke@kenlark.com. Call 315-253-4315
