SHOW OF THE WEEK: Frog and Cats and Ogres, Oh My!

This weekend (November 7 and 8) and next weekend (November 14 and 15), East Lansing-based All-of-us Express Children’s Theatre (AECT) will be performing their fall show The Frog Prince and The Truly Remarkable Puss-in-Boots. Youth from Bath, Dewitt, Diamondale, East Lansing, Grand Ledge, Haslett, Holt, Lansing, Mason, Okemos, and Perry fill the cast and crew of this latest production and range from 9-17 years of age. While these fairy tales are well-known and loved, Directors Liz Parker and Sarah Willis have given the stories their own spin. Frog Prince (director Parker) takes place in World War I, and Puss-in-Boots (director Willis) follows in World War II. But don’t cuddle into your history too comfortably, because an ogre may jump out and surprise you!

Tickets for these historical adventures are on sale now and can be purchased in advance at the East Lansing Hannah Community Center box office, either in person, or by calling (517) 333-2580 ext. 0. They are $5 for youth 17 and under, and $7 for those 18 and up. If the thrill of purchasing your tickets at the door suits you better, they are available thirty minutes prior to each show. Friday shows are at 7 pm, and Saturday shows are at 2 pm and 4:30 pm.

The fall team is comprised of first timers like Ambrose Meteyer (Carl, Puss-in-Boots) and Olivia Hughs (Gossamer, The Frog Prince) and repeat offenders like Amelia Vilhauer (Queen Melissa, The Frog Prince) and Shelby Brewer (Catherine Marie, the Farmer’s Wife, Puss-in-Boots).

All-of-us Express has recently entered a new era with their promotions, so keep your eyes peeled for AECT cast and crew members at area locations and events, like libraries, and community favorite Boo at the Zoo! And if you want to get involved, connect with All-of-us via social media (Twitter handle @AllofUsExpress, Facebook page HERE). Get updates on their latest events like other shows, classes, summer camps, and auditions – The Wind in the Willows will be the first week of December –  by following AECT!  Contact by phone is also available, just call (517) 319-6957.

Sarah Willis is the Artistic Director of All-of-us Express Children’s Theatre