Originally published on September 9, 2024
Keeping with its mission to provide quality performing arts opportunities to all community members, ARTfactory Pied Piper Theatre is providing free registration for all participants for its upcoming youth production of Les Miserables, Student Edition.
The iconic Broadway show which celebrates people from all walks of life coming together to challenge an incredible cause is a perfect fit for the initiative, and will be performed in January 2025 at Hylton Performing Arts Center. This is a remarkable opportunity for the projected cast of 60 youth to work with a nationally recognized theatre company which staffs a professional production team and orchestra, in addition to the opportunity to perform in the beautiful Merchant Hall at Hylton.
Mounting productions as large as Les Miserables can incur a large expense. To offset costs, Pied Piper traditionally requests its participants pay a registration fee. This fee covers expenses such as sets, costumes, lighting, and other production costs, the largest of which is the rental fee for the Hylton.
Due to a generous grant courtesy of Florida based nonprofit, Iron Horse Family Foundation, registration fee for all participants will be waived. “We are honored that the Iron Horse Family Foundation supports ARTfactory’s mission and goals,” states ARTfactory CEO, Talya Conroy. “We are grateful to the foundation for acknowledging not only the importance of the arts but the need to ensure that the arts remain accessible to everyone in our region.”
The private foundation’s purpose is to improve the lives of children through initiatives, projects, and support of organizational missions that bolster children’s health and wellness. It is devoted to carrying on the legacy of David M. Clark, a man who loved his children, the sound of roaring jets and thundering hooves. Clark’s daughter, Liz Taylora, explains the foundation’s connection to her father, “As I look to the future and carry out his legacy, it is my hope that the projects and programs we support rattle the ground, shake up systems that need to be shaken, and help kids soar.” Iron Horse Family Foundation is an invitation-only grantor.
Participation in Les Miserables is through audition only. Auditions will be held October 15 from 5-9 at the ARTfactory, October 16 from 5-9 PM at Metz Middle in Manassas, and October 17 from 5-9 PM at Hylton Performing Arts Center. Rehearsals will begin on October 21, running Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays until show opening, with tech week starting January 19. Show dates are January 24, 25, and 26. All cast and production members will receive two complimentary tickets.
For more information on ARTfactory Pied Piper Theatre, audition times and locations, or performance details, visit the ARTfactory website at www.virginiaartfactory.org.
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