Out of the Shadows presents 'Mary Poppins Jr.' Nov. 2-4
COEUR d’ALENE — What was merely a dream in April 2016 is about to launch its third theatrical production Nov. 2, 3 and 4.
Out of the Shadows Theater will present “Mary Poppins Jr.” at the Kroc Center Performing Arts Theater after months of dedicated rehearsals and late nights.
Actors with special needs ranging from autism to vision impairment, ages 12 to 67 and supported by volunteer non-disabled shadow actors will once again present a heartwarming and inspirational production.
Local actress Wendy Carroll created this unique theater company to provide her son with the same opportunities that others enjoyed but was denied due to disabilities. She believed that others were just waiting for the chance, that talent only needed a little help to emerge and that the community would embrace the concept with volunteerism and support.
This proved to be true and the first production in November 2016 was a roaring success.
Performance theater has been recognized by doctors as having permanent positive impact on individuals with special needs and is now considered therapeutic.
"We have witnessed some pretty remarkable transformations over the last three seasons,” Carroll said.
The production team comprises some of the area’s finest theater professionals. Director Lorna Hamilton, musical-director Julie Powell and producer Carroll bring decades of film and stage experience and have been leading the theater company since inception. Stage manager Jamie Sciarrio, choreographer Kristi Mendoza, property mistress Pat Macey and costumer Mary Basta add to that talent.
Lake City Playhouse, Spokane Civic Theater, Coeur d’Alene Summer Theater, North Idaho College Theater Department, Aspire Theater and Red Bird Theater support Out of the Shadows with props, costumes, microphones, volunteers, goodwill and recognition their fellow actors.
Out of the Shadows is a program under the parent nonprofit Celebrate Inc. and relies on donations and grants.
“Mary Poppins Jr.” opens next Friday at 7:30 p.m. Show times are Nov. 3 at 7:30 p.m. and a closing Sunday matinee Nov. 4 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $12 and are available at www.kroccda.org.