Most likely to … direct a musical theatre production at Green River College?
That may not have been a distinction in the yearbook at Auburn High School, but it’s exactly what alumni Terry Thibodeaux Jr. (class of ’99), Ryan Hutchison (’01) and Lauren Slettedahl (’05) are doing.
For the second consecutive year, the three have come together to help teens from the summer camp at Heavier Than Air Family Theatre Company create something magical on stage. This year’s play of choice is award-winning “Pippin,” and the trio couldn’t be more excited for the upcoming premiere.
“Pippin” performances are 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 4 and Saturday, Aug. 5, with a 3 o’clock matinee on Aug. 5 in the Green River College Performing Arts Building, 12401 SE 320th St., Auburn.
With an infectiously unforgettable score from musical theatre giant, Stephen Schwartz, “Pippin” swept the New York Awards circuit in 2013. The show’s message is universal, revolving around a young prince whose search for happiness ultimately leads him to discover it can be found in the ordinary moments that happen every day.
The team of Auburn graduates directs and hones the skills of an artistic young cast in everything from acting (Thibodeaux, the director) to singing (Hutchison, the musical director) and dancing (Slettedahl, the choreographer). Their assistant on the project, Tessa Grams-Habedank, is a recent alumnus from neighboring Kentridge High School and an essential crew member.
Collectively, the enthusiastic players take audience members on an enchanting journey as promised in the lyrics of the opening song, “We’ve got magic to do. … Just for you”.
All tickets $10 advance purchase, $12 at the door. Call 253-833-9111, extension 4966.
Talk to us
Please share your story tips by emailing editor@kentreporter.com.
To share your opinion for publication, submit a letter through our website https://www.kentreporter.com/submit-letter/. Include your name, address and daytime phone number. (We’ll only publish your name and hometown.) Please keep letters to 300 words or less.
