Andy’s Summer Playhouse opened its 49th season last week with the world premiere of “Goblin Secrets”, written and directed by Wyckham Avery and adapted from the children’s book by William Alexander.
Hoping to find his lost brother, Rownie escapes the home of the witch Graba and joins a troupe of goblins who perform in Zombay, a city where humans are forbidden to wear masks and act in plays. Launched last year at Andy’s 3rd annual Greenhouse Initiative, this show will feature clowning, physical theater, and how heroes can be found in the most unexpected places.
“I continue to be surprised by how relevant this fantasy story is,” director and playwright Wyckham Avery says. ” I was so thrilled to see how [William Alexander] gave the art and craft of performance the majesty we sometimes overlook. It so clearly needed to be put on stage. ”
This summer is Andy’s Summer Playhouse’s 49th season of all-original works, themed the “Summer of Rebellion.” The themes provide guidance and context to the professional artists and creative teams who partner with the kids in ensemble fashion to mount the new works.
“The themes do not define the productions. Instead, each production explores facets of that season’s theme,” says Producing Artistic Director, Jared Mezzocchi. “It’s a way for the kids and community to really interrogate how that theme surrounds them in their daily lives, but may not be fully conscious to them.”
“I love that this show is part of the Summer of Rebellion,” Avery adds, “There are moments of revolt throughout the whole story. The Tamlin (Goblins) continue to perform their shows despite the risk of arrest. They are conscientious objectors of their story and fight to save the city that is their home, even when they are outcasts. We see characters grow and break free from their oppressors and learn to use their voice to speak out when they know something is wrong. In other words, they learn to rebel.”
“Goblin Secrets”, best for young audiences, runs July 5-13 at Andy’s Summer Playhouse. Showtimes are July 5, 6, 11 and 12 at 7:30 p.m. The July 7 and 10 performances are at 2 p.m. and followed by a talkback. There are two shows on July 13 with an 11 a.m. sensory friendly performance and the final performance of “Goblin Secrets” is at 5 p.m.
General Admission tickets are $16 for adults and $8 for youth/seniors aged 18 & under and 65 & older, with special $5 matinee pricing for youth/seniors. Tickets may be purchased www.andyssummerplayhouse.org, at the Andy’s Summer Playhouse box office, or by calling (603) 654-2613.
Andy’s is located at 582 Isaac Frye Highway, Wilton.
For more information, visit www.andyssummerplayhouse.org.