Over 100 Local Students Perform in Alpine Kids! Theatre Project's BEAUTY AND THE BEAST JR. This Weekend

Over 100 children will perform in Disney's Beauty & the Beast Jr at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center presented by Alpine Kids! Theatre Project. One hundred and nine children are split into two casts for four performances: 2pm & 7pm today, Oct. 19th and 2pm & 6pm on Oct. 20th.

The students in grades 1-8 come from throughout the Flathead Valley and represent almost every elementary and middle school in the Valley, including home-schooled students. Since beginning the program in 2008, Alpine Theatre Project founders and former Broadway actors Luke Walrath and Betsi Morrison have found a place for each child who turns up for auditions.

"Numerous studies have shown the advantages for children involved in the performing arts," says Morrison. "Every child deserves the opportunity to benefit from participation in theatre."

The AKTP program is the cornerstone of a larger initiative by ATP to further incorporate education into its programming. Other programs include its Broadway Master Class series, where local students are mentored 1-on-1 by ATP's roster of visiting artists from Broadway. Over 750 students have taken part in ATP's educational programs since 2008.

The AKTP program focuses on developing confidence and creativity in students while rehearsing a full musical production. The program, taught by Morrison and Walrath, relies heavily on volunteer support, with many of the parents getting involved in rehearsals, costuming, and other aspects.

"We run a very open program," says Morrison. "Parents and teachers get involved. We even partner with North Valley Hospital every year to teach the students about proper nutrition and exercise. It's not just about putting on a show. It's about how putting on a show can open up new worlds for you."

Beauty & the Beast Jr is based on the hit Broadway production of the classic Disney musical film, which won 2 Academy Awards, including "Best Original Song" for the title song.

Tickets for Beauty & the Beast Jr. are $15 for adults and $8 for children 12 and under. For tickets and more information, call 862-SHOW (7469) or visit atpwhitefish.org.

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