Stages Theatre Co Presents Bridge to Terabithia, Opens 10/14

As "Bridge to Terabithia" opens at Stages Theatre Company (STC) Oct. 14 Theo Emo won't have to go very far for acting advice. His mother, Gretchen Emo, is portraying Miss Nelson/Miss Viola Swamp in the current production "Miss Nelson is Missing" also located in the Hopkins Center for the Arts.

"Bridge to Terabithia" is a Newbery award-winning novel for ages 8 and up that captures the imagination of the audience. "I am struck by the hopefulness, though the events of the play are tragic and that seems to be what everyone gravitates to--the hope that comes from the friendship of the leading characters is inspiring. It becomes a shared lesson in courage and letting go," says Artistic Director Sandy Boren-Barrett.

Although this isn't the first time for mother and son to act at the same theater, it is the first time that their productions overlap. "It has been awesome working at the same time. Basically, we are experiencing a lot of the same things at the same time and are able to talk, laugh and get emotional about them together," says Gretchen.

Having demanding schedules hasn't slowed them down. "I have tried to help Theo schedule his school work, social times and rehearsals to help him do his best. While he has helped me with house work and watching his sisters, we both have the motivation of doing what we love, so we are willing to help each other out," says Gretchen. 

Stages Theatre Company is committed to the enrichment and education of children and youth
in a professional theatre environment that stimulates artistic excellence and personal growth.
Last seen as Zig Zag in "Holes" at STC, Theo returns as Jesse Aarons.

"The directors take what experience I have and just build on that, they are helping me so much. I am always excited to come to rehearsal because I know they will work with me and help me along."

For Gretchen there is a lot of joy watching Theo act at STC. "I know this is the best place for my son to start, the best foundation he could have if he chooses to continue acting. Being at STC is the happiest I have seen him in years. I am so proud of him. He has taken this responsibility very seriously and wants to do the best job possible and I know he will."

"My mom is a great role model. She doesn't give up, even when she is struggling with a character or juggling life with work. She loves it so much that she will find a way to do the best she can. I hope I can do that," says Theo. "Bridge to Terabithia" begins Oct. 14 and ends Nov. 6 in the Hopkins Jaycees Studio and weekday matinees are limited. "Miss Nelson is Missing" ends Oct. 23 in the mainstage theater and the 10 a.m. weekday matinees are limited. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.stagestheatre.org for performance dates and times, or by calling the Box Office at (952) 979-1111, Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12
for children (ages 5 to 17) and seniors (60+). Lap passes are available for free
(ages 0 to 2) and $5 for (ages 3 to 4).

Stages Theatre Company was founded in 1984 and since then has grown to become one of the largest professional theatres for young audiences in the country. We engage young artists with themes relevant to their lives and involve them in creating magical works featuring young people in meaningful roles. Through theatrical productions, workshops, conservatory classes and other outreach programs, Stages Theatre Company annually serves more than 130,000 young people and their families.

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