The Canadian College of Performing Arts alumni troupe springs two hits for the Island tour this month.
With its roots in Oak Bay, the musical theatre company tours Vancouver Island, sharing two new works created and presented by CCPA grads.
“Nobody does musical theatre like students and graduates of the college,” said R.J. Peters, artistic producer of the Alumni Company and director of The Pitch, one of the two one-act musicals. “We’re creating a new show with a true vaudeville feel. The two productions are perfectly tailored for local businesses, schools, retirement residences; presenting a unique theatrical experience.”
In The Pitch, Doc Nostrum and His Caravan of Cure-Alls is a mini-musical created by Sarah Murphy, featuring music from traditional bluegrass, vaudeville and early jazz eras. The show follows smooth-talkin’ snake oil salesman Doc Nostrum as he and his troupe of performers travel from town to town duping the public with claims of miracle cures, tonics and elixirs. When they meet small-town girl Clara Morris, they get more than they bargained for and things begin to go awry for these purveyors of promise.
Get Happy is a new musical revue compiled by Avery Brennan. Featuring music from hit movie musicals such as Funny Girl, Victor/Victoria, 42nd Street and Chicago, it tells the age-old story of a determined young woman who yearns for stardom, in a world where people can’t seem to appreciate her talents.
“All aspects of these productions, from writing to technical to performing is done exclusively by CCPA alumni,” said Ron Schuster, CCPA director. “It is a great showcase of their incredible talents.”
Before hitting the road, the company launches formally with performances at the CCPA performance hall on Elgin Road May 13 to 28. Learn more about times and tickets at ccpacanada.com, or call 250-595-9970 or email admin@ccpacanada.com to book performances.