Florence kids take the stage with 'Treasure Island'

Young Florence actors are joining forces with the Missoula Children’s Theatre for a production of "Treasure Island."

Performances of the play take place at 5 p.m., Friday, June 14 and 5 p.m., Saturday, June 15 at the Florence K-8 gym, 460 S. Park St. Admission is free.

The Missoula Children’s Theatre tour show s are designed for students entering first grade through 12th grade. About 60 local students were cast and four assistant directors were chosen.

The process has been a whilrwind for the young performers.  Open auditions took place on Monday, June 10, with rehearsals beginning immediately after. Reharsals with continue up to Friday.

“Treasure Island,” is an original adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's novel, in which a young Jim Hawkins, living on the coast of Maine in the waning days of the American Revolutionary War, finds a treasure map. Trusting the pirate Long John Silver, Hawkins embarks on an adventure to find the treasure and outwit the villainous pirate.

Florence has worked with the nonprofit Missoula Children’s Theatre based in Missoula, Montana, for several years. During the town council’s May 6, meeting, a service agreement with the troupe was renewed.

“A tour team arrives to town in their ‘little red truck’ loaded with a set, lights, costumes, props and make-up, everything it takes to put on a play, except the cast," a council staff report stated.

The agreement with the theater costs the town $4,325. Under the agreement, the Missoula Children’s Theatre provides two professional actors/directors with a set, light, costumes, props and make-up; conducts open group auditions for two public performances; holds three “enrichment” workshops; and delivers marketing materials.

In turn, the Florence Parks and Recreation department provides housing for two people for seven nights in a homestay or motel; a piano and accompanist for the shows; one rehearsal space and a rehearsal schedule; a play area; preregistration for cast members; and collects any fees for registration and office box sales.

Submit their civil comments, pro or con, on this issue. Email AZOpinions@iniusa.org. Janet Perez can be reached at jperez@iniusa.org.