KAMLOOPS - This summer, for its 14th consecutive year, the Kamloops Arts Council has assembled a team of aspiring actors to bring fun, free original theatre to area children and families. 

This year's Rivertown Players, mentored by professional artist Melissa Thomas, consists of Josh Sunderman, Celine Majcher, and Erik Stephany, all working towards completing their theatre degrees at TRU. 

The troupe will perform at a multitude of parks and events, bringing their original plays and workshops to local parks and festivals, including Prince Charles Park, McDonald Park, the Wildlife Park, Art in the Park on Canada Day and Ribfest. (Daycares and other interested groups are encouraged to book the Players by calling 250-372-7323.)
 
The Kamloops Arts Council's Rivertown Players program fosters the talent of the next generation of theatre artists and provides entertainment and inspiration for children and families. 

"This is an exceptional opportunity for emerging artists to work creatively in a multitude of capacities and gain valuable experience in creating, producing, and performing live theatre," says Thomas. "And I often hear feedback from families in Kamloops that they would like to see more affordable family-friendly events. This is their chance to enjoy live outdoor theatre for FREE!" 
 
This summer's three plays will feature a creative array of characters, from forest creatures to superheroes.

"There's a large element of audience participation in these shows," says actor/booking coordinator Erik Stephany. "Kids will have the opportunity to help the characters out and move the story along." 
 
"Each individual member of the company is writing their own script based off the ideas we come up with as a group," says director/actor Josh Sunderman. 
 
The troupe will also lead young audiences in workshops that include such theatrical elements as clowning, improv, and mask-making. Actor/stage manager Celine Majcher states, "These workshops give children the opportunity to engage in theatre, and to have a physical thing to make or do. It reinforces the lessons they are learning."
 
The Kamloops Arts Council Rivertown Players shows will begin touring in July and through August. Follow them on Twitter (@rtownplayers) and Facebook for up-to-the-minute updates.

News from © iNFOnews, 2015