HopeKids First to See World Premiere of THE EMPEROR'S NEW CLOTHES at Valley Youth Theatre

Valley Youth Theatre (VYT) continues its long-standing relationship with HopeKids by inviting children facing life-threatening illness and their families to see the final technical rehearsal of The Emperor's New Clothes on Thursday, February 5.

Written and directed by VYT alum David Chorley, this world premiere play was produced in collaboration with VYT is loosely based on the Hans Christian Andersen story about how far an emperor's vanity takes him before he is exposed. Insiders are comparing it to the company's second-highest grossing show of all time Shrek the Musical.

"Children and adults will love the story and colorful characters," said Producing Artistic Director Bobb Cooper, "and be rolling in the aisles with laughter!"

Chorley directed a traditional Japanese version of The Emperor's New Clothes in 2001 and performed in seven other VYT shows including three productions of Grease. "I loved my three stints as Vince Fontaine," Chorley said. "I was given a great deal of comedic freedom and it was the first time I really got to experiment with improvisation."

The cast of The Emperor's New Clothes ranges in age from 8 to 17 and includes 14 actors from Phoenix, two each from Tempe and Chandler, and one each from Goodyear, Mesa and Scottsdale. Six of the 21 cast members are new to the VYT stage.

Patrons who attend any of the public performances between February 6 and 22 are encouraged to bring gently-used children's clothing for the St Vincent de Paul drop box in the theater lobby. Kid to Kid is sponsoring this production and two of its locations, in Gilbert and Peoria, will also donate clothes.

Tickets to The Emperor's New Clothes are $20 and available by calling the VYT box office at 602.253.8188 x2 or ordering online at VYT.com.

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