Children's theater to perform `Once On This Island Jr.'

Art's View Children's Theatre announced its latest production, "Once On This Island Jr."

This tale, organizers said, is performed by children, for children.

With its poignant story and catchy Caribbean flavored score, the production is a feast for the heart, mind and soul, they said.

This theatrical musical sings and dances the story of Ti Moune, a young peasant girl who rescues and falls in love with Daniel, a young man from a wealthy family.

When Daniel is returned to his people, the gods who rule the island guide Ti Moune on a quest to test the strength of her love against the powerful forces of prejudice, hatred and death.

"Once On This Island Jr." makes exploring the issues of family, perseverance, cultural differences, and class struggles both fun and educational.

Children portray all the roles including rich landowners, poor peasants, trees, and birds as they enact the story.

In the lead role playing Ti Moune is Jori Sutton. Jori is an ArtsView veteran who is an incredible young performer.

Ti Moune's love interest, Daniel Beauxhomme, the young man from a wealthy family, is performed by Luis Vazquez, another ArtsView veteran from Foster Middle School.

Other characters in this musical include Agwe, the God of Water who is played by Arianna Berry.

Erulie, the Goddess of Love is portrayed by Chelsea Anderson, Asaka, the Mother of Earth features Taylor Parks. Papa Ge, the Demon of Death is played by 13- year-old Madalyn Grimm, who has been active in the ArtsView community and fine arts for years.

Included in the cast are villagers and storytellers featuring Elijah Bump, Heidi King, Kelsey McFall, and Abby Wayt. Little Ti Moune is played by Alex Sigtenhorst, and Kristen Ritch shines as Mama Euralie.

Also featured are Caroline Bump as Tonton Juliana and Andrea, Daniel's love interest, is played by Emily Bollig.

Advanced tickets are $8 per person and are available at ArtsView Children's Theatre 903- 236-7535. The theater is located at 313 W. Tyler St., Tyler. Call 903-236-7535 for tickets or see the Web site: www.artsviewchildrenstheatre. com.
Performance
Dates:
Oct. 4: 5 - 7 p.m.
Oct. 6: 2 - 7 p.m.
Oct. 7: 2 p.m.