Beyond being insane, this year’s CADSfest offers a very diverse line-up of plays for all ages. From the child-friendly adaptation of “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” to the more grown-up takes on life in “Out of the Know” and “See You Never,” there is something for everyone. The major difference between this festival and other theatre festivals that happen in the area is that this one is entirely performed by the youth of our community. Actors range in age from 4 to 20s.
In addition, the festival consists of (almost) entirely brand new material written/created by current and former students, as well as the school’s instructors. This gives students a chance to not only show off their developing acting talents, but also their skills at writing, directing, stage managing, etc. The work that these young people put into their plays is amazing, along with the degree of professionalism. There is, of course, also a great sense of fun that can really only be seen in these young casts.
Some of the pieces have been fully developed for this festival, while others are still in the development process. Two playwriting classes are presenting “staged readings” of their work throughout the week to get feedback from the audience. The improv class will be performing a piece that, due to its improvisational nature, will likely never be seen again. There are also two musicals coming up through the week.
Each evening of theatre consists of a number of plays, and once the performances are over, there is a brief adjudication of the night’s accomplishments given by one of CADS’s instructors. This gives the students a chance to reflect on their work, to build on what they already know, and to think differently about their craft. The progress in the students is there to see – many of the older students, now in high school, have been taking part in the festival since elementary school.
A few nights of the festival have already gone by, and if you were fortunate enough to see them, you know exactly what these kids are capable of. We’ve seen sandcastles built on stage, a war fought, mannequins dance, and how YouTube videos are made. However, there is still plenty more to see. Be sure to head out to the Boardmore Playhouse at CBU each night this week at 7pm to see some great productions and performances from some great young people.
SUNDAY, APRIL 11
Perplexities
Sandcastles
MONDAY, APRIL 12
And Now With 30% More Cats, Part 1 (Staged Reading)
MilkandAnchovies Man
Word War I
TUESDAY, APRIL 13
And Now With 30% More Cats, Part 2 (Staged Reading)
The Carnival of the Animals
The Adventures of Prompter Boy
Kids Away from the Wall Presents… (Improv)
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 14
And Now With 30% More Cats, Part 3 (Staged Reading)
Goldilocks and the Three Bears
Androcles and the Lion
THURSDAY, APRIL 15
*NOTE: this night is PG-13
And Now With 30% More Cats, Part 4 (Staged Reading)
Actors Anonymous
Out of the Know
FRIDAY, APRIL 16
And Now With 30% More Cats, Part 5 (Staged Reading)
I’m No Good At Titles
The Pied Piper
SATURDAY, APRIL 17
*NOTE: this night begins at 5pm
The Silent Organization
