Center Stage Productions Kids present Seussical Jr.

Center Stage Production Kids presented Seussical Jr. at the Manila High School Theatre Auditorium. Five presentations from Aug. 10-13, under the direction of Kennedy Baker, director/choreographer, delighted the audiences with lots of music and energy. Assistant director/choreographer was Paige King.

The two act musical was filled with favorite songs and Dr. Seuss characters.

Kennedy is a 2017 graduate of Manila High School, said she wanted to bring theater education and theater arts back to the community she loved. Last year she directed High School Musical Jr. at the Manila High School Theatre Auditorium.

Kennedy said she hopes the message from the show, treating others the way you want to be treated is key, will remain close to the heart.

“And always remember a person is a person no matter how small,” she said. “I have been in the world of theater for the past 18 years and have worked in over 27 productions,” she said. “I have been a part of the Center Stage Productions family for the past five years. Sadly, CSP is going dark for a bit. Keeping their love for all and passions for the arts, I have created Studio 42 & Co. to continue their love for all and passions for the arts. I created Studio 42 & Co. to continue our children's productions and add some fun opportunities for the whole family.”

Kennedy expressed her appreciation to all the sponsors and the volunteers for their efforts in making the show successful.

Other members of the Seussical Jr. crew include Kaitlyn Woodall, stage manager/choreographer; Brandon Bishop, choreographer; Sarah Poe, costume designer; Annessa Bratten, vocal director; Ethan Poe, technical designer; Jackie Scott, production illustrations; Analee Griffin, technical operations; and Calvin Kemmett. Set designers were Dale Murphy and Luke Baker.

Cast members included Hugh Adams IV, Reagan Ashmore, Darby Carter, Ayden Conner, Kane Dehart, Daxton Dogan, Mo Doty, Adielgh Harrell, Ella Hawkins, Victoria Hickman, Amber Hoskins, Caroline Johnson, Evangelina Mashaal, Carson Middleton, Conner Middleton, Janie Katie Middleton, Ellie Mikels, Tripp Page, Ali Phelps, Eden Poe, Lexi Porter, Rico Porter, Molly Rathel, Jenesis Riddell, Kolsen Woodall, Christa Worthey, Kolsen Woodall.

The production brought young people from throughout the area together to showcase their talents. Cast and crew members were from Manila, Buffalo Island Central, Southern Arkansas University, Paragould, Jonesboro, Mountain Home, Blytheville, Westside, Caraway and Cardwell.