The Hundred Dresses at New England Youth Theatre

NEYT: Acting Against BullyingWhen it matters most, we all think we would do the right thing; but when it comes down to it - do we really have what it takes? Examine what being an ally really means with New England Youth Theatre, as they tackle issues such as xenophobia, bullying and forgiveness. Based on the award winning book by Eleanor Estes and written by Mary Hall Surface, the timeless tale The Hundred Dresses is the kickoff show for NEYTs Mainstage 2020 season, playing March 6-14 at 100 Flat St in Downtown Brattleboro.The story follows Wanda Petronski, a young girl who simply wants to have fun and make friends, just like every other child; but in 1930s small town America, a Polish immigrant doesnt easily fit in. This play is important because awareness of bullying needs to be raised. There are also different kinds of bullying. Bullying someone because of racial stereotypes is something that needs to be addressed more often, especially in this country, says Sydney Quinn Chute, a young NEYT actor. You have to have compassion for everyone. You have to know you are not alone, adds Kahlyn White, another Hundred Dresses participant. Theatre is by its very nature collaborative and inclusive, everybody matters and everybody has an important job to do. The stories we tell are about how to really see other people, people that you might not normally look at or listen to. Always, and especially now - in such a divisive culture - telling a story about empathy and being an ally feels right, says Director Rebecca Waxman. It is paramount that we do a story about making room for all kinds of people, including those who dont feel included. I think it will really resonate with any human."NEYT has set goals around performing works that really ally with the world and address todays issues. Theatre is not about making art for arts sake, but rather about making art for the sake of the world; creating a space for people to come together, to stay curious and become involved. New England Youth Theatre invites the community to share in the experience of The Hundred Dresses, playing March 6,7,13, 14 at 7pm, and March 7 and 14th at 2pm. All performances are at 100 Flat Street in Brattleboro.Tickets are $13 for adults, $12 for seniors and $10 for children. Tickets may be purchased in advance at www.neyt.org, in person at the Box Office from noon to 5 p.m. on Wednesdays, or by phone at 802-246-6398. NEYT is an accessible theater, with accommodations for wheelchairs and Assistive Listening Devices.This show was made possible through generous support from Prentiss Smith and Co. NEYT is also supported by the Vermont Childrens Trust Fund, Vermont Arts Council and the Cornelia T Bailey Foundation.