Family Children's Theatre

The Little Mermaid - The Family Children’s Theatre presents its junior musical The Little Mermaid at the Flag Theatre on July 9 through July 12. The fairy tale was written in 1837 by the Danish poet and author Hans Christian Andersen. It has been adapted to various media including musical theater and animated film. Even though this is the basis for the Disney animated film and Broadway musical, there are differences. In the show adapted by R. Eugene Jackson, the young mermaid is named Anemone. In addition, the music is entirely different. However, the characters of the Sea-Witch, the clam (Clem not Sebastian), the evil henchmen of the Sea-Witch (Sharks – Rip-tide and Zip-Tide), the prince (Theodore), Grandmother, and Neptune (not Triton) are all present. Twenty-five cast members will take you on a memorable experience as Anemone attempts to win the heart of the human prince. The show is being codirected by Steve Wilson and Lisa Sack. We will make our magical trip as we set sail Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30p.m. and on Sunday afternoon at 3:00p.m.

Auditions for James and the Giant Peach – Auditions for Ronald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach will be held June 27, 2009 at The Flag Theatre from 10:00a.m. until 2:00p.m. at the same site. This show will depict the strangely wonderful tale of James’ escape from his horrible aunts. The cast will be for all age groups.

Season Tickets for the 21st Season – The 21st season was announced at Beauty and the Beast. The Board of Directors of the Family Children’s Theatre believes that the 21st season will continue to provide the quality entertainment through time honored shows as well as a new show. The season is balanced with shows focused on our younger audience and those older.

July 9-12, the junior musical will be presented at the Flag Theatre, The Little Mermaid. This show will give our younger actors center stage in a musical. Auditions for this show is May 16, from 10a.m. until 2p.m. at the Flag Theatre.

August 20–23, the popular children’s story James and The Giant Peach will be on stage. This story explores courage and friendship. Three of our teenage actors will direct this show. Auditions for this show is June 27, from 10a.m. until 2p.m. at the Flag Theatre.

September 24-27, we will present Methuselah’s Children. This historical drama was written by Jannet Saxton of Hutchinson. It explores the movement of the Afro-Americans from the south to Kansas. This will be our annual educational show of the year. August 8 will be the date of auditions for this show, from 10a.m. until 2p.m. at the Flag Theatre.

November 19–22 and November 27–29, It’s a Wonderful Life will be our seasonal production. This classic will set the mood for the upcoming holidays. Auditions for this show are set for Saturday, October 3, from 10a.m. until 2p.m. at the Flag Theatre.

January 14-17, Another favorite returns to the Flag stage, Cotton Patch Gospel. Cotton Patch Gospel is a musical that retells the story of Jesus as if in modern day, rural Georgia. Based on the book The Cotton Patch Version of Matthew and John. Auditions for this show are set for Saturday, November 14, from 10a.m. until 2p.m. at the Flag Theatre.

By becoming a season ticket holder, you will get two shows free and have reserved seats. Senior (65 and older) $36; Adult $48; Children (2-12) $30; Family Package (all of the people in your house for one low price) $150; 1/2 season tickets are also available. For more informtion contact Craig Williams at 662-1601 or by email at cwilliams62@cox.net For those of you who want to renew your present season tickets, you will have first choice a retaining your present reserved seats.

Buying Tickets On-Line – You can now purchase your tickets for the next show at the Flag by going to www.familychildrenstheatre.com Of course, we will continue to provide you with local outlets at Hayes Sight and Sound, Johnson Music, Sarah’s Catholic Store and Edward Jones in South Hutchinson. Out and About with FCT " The FCT provided the entertainment at the culmination of Week of the Young Child.

Going electronic – We would like you to provide us with your email address. This would allow the FCT to contact you to remind you of our upcoming shows. If you would like, we can send you our newsletter also. It would provide a convenient method of alerting you to any special events or changes in scheduled events. You may send your email address to cwilliams62@cox.net or you may provide it when you attend one of our shows. We will not be sharing this information.

New Bricks – When you are attending the next show or as you are walking downtown, take a minute and look at the new additions in our paver display.

Brick #1 Christner Family Wray Roofing Hendrickson Family

Brick #2 Janett Barkman Mark & Jacque Eaton

Brick #3 We love the Flag! Bretz and Hughes Families

Brick #4 Dr. Mark and Donna Buehler Tina Harold Thomas

Brick #5 Todd Thursdton From Alice '93 to Annie '04

Brick #6 C & H Hadley J & C Carrington Friends Forever

Brick #7 Terry Gilley Actor Friend of the FCT

Brick #8 Richard Fritschen Board Member Friend of the FCT