Dixon Community Theater is preparing to bring “The Addams Family Musical Young@Part” to the stage this fall, featuring 33 young performers in a production designed to develop theater skills while providing local children with opportunities to perform. Photo by Nicolas Brown

DIXON, CA (MPG) - Dixon Community Theater is preparing to bring “The Addams Family Musical Young@Part” to the stage this fall, featuring 33 young performers in a production designed to develop theater skills while providing local children with opportunities to perform.

Performances are scheduled for Oct. 9-11 and Oct. 16-18 at the Dixon Community Performing Arts Center.

Approximately 34 young performers auditioned for the production, according to Kelly Pidgeon James, vice president of Dixon Community Theater and the show's director. James said the production team was impressed not only by the performers' abilities but also by their commitment throughout the audition process.

“The thing I believe we were most impressed by was the willingness to try,” said James. “Every child who auditioned, regardless of past experience, age or ability, gave it their all throughout every part of the process.”

James said the large number of talented auditionees led the theater to make an unprecedented casting decision.

“This show is the first show that we made the decision to double cast many of the principal roles,” she said. “Specific roles like Wednesday will be split between two different performers who will play the character on an alternating schedule.”

The final cast includes 33 children, with performers alternating in several leading roles while also portraying Addams Family ancestors in other performances.

James selected the Young@Part edition of the Broadway musical because it offers a condensed version suitable for younger performers while retaining familiar characters that appeal to audiences of all ages.

“The Addams Family Musical Young@Part gives local children the opportunity to participate in a more mainstream production,” she said. “Additionally, the familiar characters appeal to all age groups and this show has plenty of roles to accommodate as many children as possible who want to participate.”

To help participants balance theater with school and extracurricular activities, rehearsals are scheduled after school, generally last less than two hours and are limited to as few days each week as possible.

James said the production provides opportunities for young actors to build confidence, develop teamwork and gain experience both on and off the stage.

“From auditions to rehearsals and performances, they gain valuable experience expressing themselves and overcoming stage fright,” she said. “Our cast members must work together, support one another and rely on each other to bring the story to life.”

The production team includes James as director, veteran actor Stevie Carr as assistant director, musical director Kaitlyn McEowen, choreographer Bella Reeder and dance captain Irie Carr. James said the creative staff combines professional experience with a focus on youth education.

Looking ahead to opening night, James said she hopes audiences recognize both the performers' accomplishments and the value of youth theater. Photo by Nicolas Brown

“Our goal is to provide our young performers with the highest quality instruction and support,” said James. “Every participant has the opportunity to learn, grow and shine on stage.”

Although community outreach events are still being scheduled, Dixon Community Theater continues to partner with local schools, businesses and organizations to support performing arts opportunities. The organization works closely with Dixon Unified School District, which provides rehearsal space and access to the Dixon Community Performing Arts Center.

Local businesses also support productions through sponsorships and program advertising. James thanked Dixon Unified School District, Mountain Mike's Pizza and The Lewis Group for supporting this year's production.

Looking ahead to opening night, James said she hopes audiences recognize both the performers' accomplishments and the value of youth theater.

“I hope everyone who attends one of our upcoming performances will see the joy these young performers experience on stage, as well as the confidence, growth and dedication they have developed throughout the process,” she said. “I also hope they will see Dixon Community Theater's unwavering commitment to creating meaningful performing arts opportunities for the youth in our community.”

For more information, visit dixoncommunitytheater.org or email [email protected].