If you have a child who is interested in musical theatre, or are a patron of the arts yourself, you must drive “over the hill” on 680 South and experience one of the most professional youth performing arts organizations around -- StarStruck Theatre. You’re in luck because StarStruck is about to stage the new musical “A Little Princess” at Ohlone College January 11-27.
How do I know this is one of the best values for your entertainment dollar, you ask? My son has been involved with the company for the past 7 years. He has been cast in 12 shows in those years, and these are not just your average community theatre shows. From the first time Peter Pan flew through the window, and took my breath away, to the perfectly synched tapping sequences in “42nd Street”, and the rotating turntable stage in “Les Miserables,” I realized I was watching shows with the highest quality production value. Broadway bound talent have performed in many of the shows, and students have gone to study at UCLA, NYU, UC Irvine, to name a few.
We have made the drive over the hill, happily and originally alone, but the current cast features five Pleasanton youth, a student from Danville and several from Livermore. The Artistic Director and founder of the non-profit organization, Lori Stokes, has an unrelenting drive for the highest caliber shows, and has earned the respect and love of hundreds of youth in her 16 years in business. She surrounds herself with caring and talented staff, and the kids put forth an exceptional effort each show. The company also provides a “second” family for many of the cast, accepting each talented child for their own abilities.
Check it out for yourself; the short 20-minute drive is always worth it and always against traffic.
Ticket and other information can be found at starstrucktheatre.org.
