Reading Community Players staging ‘Moana Jr.’; Reading Civic Theatre announces auditions [Spotlight]

Reading Community Players has announced the area premiere of “Disney’s Moana Jr.,” scheduled to be performed on June 28 and 29 at the Miller Center for the Arts at Reading Area Community College. Show times are 7 p.m. June 28 and 3 and 7 p.m. June 29. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for students and seniors (65-plus).

The production is a 60-minute musical adaptation of the 2016 Disney animated film, bringing the adventures of Moana and her village of Motunui to life onstage. It features all the film’s beloved songs, including “How Far I’ll Go,” “Shiny” and “You’re Welcome,” written by Tony, Grammy, Emmy and Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda, Opetaia Foa’i and Mark Mancina.

The book has been adapted by Susan Soon He Stanton with music and orchestra adapted and arranged by Ian Weinberger.

This heartwarming coming-of-age story starring youth from throughout Berks County follows the strong-willed Moana as she sets sail across the Pacific to save her village and discover the truth about her heritage. Moana and the legendary demigod Maui embark on an epic journey of self-discovery and camaraderie as both learn to harness the power that lies within.

The show is directed and choreographed by Debbi Silas, past RCP president, who sees personal growth in the cast members.

“It is an ensemble-based show with intricate locations and scenes flowing and ebbing,” Silas said. “The cast is learning to form a bond supporting each other and working as a team. This collaborative effort is fundamental in producing and creating a unique product.”

Silas added, “The cast is comprised of students from diverse backgrounds, many who never would have met without this opportunity.”

Children ages 7 to 15 from several Berks County school districts make up the cast.

Musical director Kristen Bender enjoys bringing the theater experience to kids, saying: “Children are filled with boundless positivity and infectious enthusiasm. They feed off one another’s excitement. Witnessing their growth from week to week is inspiring and deeply rewarding.”

Tickets are available at https://millercenter.racc.edu/moana-jr or by calling the Box Office at 610-607-6270.

Auditions

Reading Civic Theatre will hold auditions for its inaugural Senior Talent Spotlight, open to ages 55 and older, on June 22 from 1 to 5 p.m. at its theater at 4350 Perkiomen Ave., Exeter Township. The show date is Oct. 19.

Actors, singers, dancers, comedians, poets, magicians or any other variety of talented individuals are welcome to audition as RCT remembers a “Golden Generation.”

Reserve audition slots at www.readingcivic.org by June 15, or email event coordinator Barry Ciabattoni at barry1@ptd.net with further questions.