Home / Arts and Entertainment / Local Kids Star in World Premiere Musical
Local Kids Star in World Premiere Musical
3 Aug
Summary
- Youth theater stages world premiere of new musical in three weeks.
- Program celebrates 51 years, includes famous alumni like Tina Fey.
- Show teaches confidence and overcoming stage fright through its story.
Upper Darby Summer Stage is currently bringing the world premiere of "Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile: The Musical Jr." to life, a remarkable feat accomplished in just three weeks by a cast of 63 young actors. This production is part of the program's significant 51st anniversary celebration, highlighting the involvement of hundreds of local children.
The musical, based on the beloved book and film, features music by renowned composers Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. Artistic Director Chris Luner expressed excitement over being one of the first theater organizations in the country to premiere this new title, emphasizing its pilot production status.
Director Pat Walsh noted the show's theme of overcoming stage fright, a lesson shared with the young performers. Cristian Fabian, who plays Lyle, believes the story's message of breaking out of one's shell and building confidence is vital for the audience. The camp itself is a significant tradition, having produced notable alumni such as Tina Fey and David Cornswet.
With a demanding schedule, Upper Darby Summer Stage is staging nine full productions over the summer, engaging between 900 and 1,000 students in total. "Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile: The Musical Jr." runs from August 4-6 at the Haverford High School Performing Arts Center, alongside Disney's "Tarzan."
