The Georgian Theatre Festival (GTF) is wrapping up their summer Youth Academy with a performance of Dr. Seuss' 'The Lorax' at Woodford Hall on Saturday August 28 at 7 pm.
The theatre arts program for youth run by the GTF this summer provided an opportunity for kids aged 7 to 14 years old, with any level of experience to learn about arts and drama. The program has been offered for nine continuous seasons, and many of the previous students who participated have gone on to pursue a wide variety of activities in the performing arts.
Several local businesses sponsored the program this year allowing the cost for participation to remain affordable. Those sponsors include the Sydenham Optimist Club, Grandma Lambe's, Earth Harvest Cafe, Woodford Hall, and the board members of GTF.
In addition to sponsors, the program has benefited from the oft mentioned Meaford community spirit. A number of volunteers dedicated their time and experience to the program throughout the summer, and the fruits of their labour will be in full display on the Woodford Hall stage Saturday.
The ever popular Dr. Seuss story of the Lorax has been adapted to the stage by playwright Ingrid Remkins, and combined with performances of Meaford youth, it is sure to delight any who are able to attend.
The story which was originally published in 1971 is particularly relevant in our modern society as it focuses on the diminished quality of the environment and that of the Lorax themselves who rise up to defend the trees against greedy industry which is represented in the story by the character called the Once-ler.
In recent years the Seuss story has become a favourite of many environmentalists.
The performance at Woodford Hall is open to all, and admission is by donation making it an affordable evening of youth community theatre for everyone.
