Barb Masse’s directorial debut is not only a first for her; it’s a first in the history of Theatre Kent.
Barb is directing Just in the Nick of Time, the theatre company’s annual Christmas show. It’s a comedy that will run Dec 17 and 18 at Kiwanis Theatre and it marks the first time in the history of Theatre Kent that the entire cast is comprised of children.
“We didn’t start out to make history but with so many actors involved in other projects such as Spamalot, we rolled the dice and when held the casting call we had capable actors who were all under 18,” she said.
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The family show deals with what happens when Santa mysteriously disappears from the North Pole and detective Red Mistletoe is called in to solve the mystery.
“There are some real twists about what goes on and how everyone is affected so I don’t want to spoil it, but it promises to be lots of fun,” she said.
Masse has been involved with Theatre Kent for 27 years and has been in charge of everything from props to costumes (her first love) but she’s finding directing a play fun and challenging.
“With such a young cast, you have to keep things moving,” she said. “We have kids from Grade 3 to Grade 12 and some have more experience than others but it’s been great.”
Masse called in noted local actor Audrey Hummelen to help ‘polish’ the play. “Audrey was great, she related to the kids and gave them some tips that really made a difference in their performance.”
Masse praised the 22 children who make up the cast for their dedication. “We have been rehearsing three times per week since September so it takes real dedication. Some of the actors were in Spamalot and school plays so they really have to be dedicated to do this.”
Just In the Nick of Time will be performed December 17 and 18 at the Kiwanis Theatre at 7 p.m. each night.
There will also be matinees each day at 11 a.m. Tickets are only $10 and can be purchased through cktickets.com or by visiting the theatre box office at 75 William Street North or calling at 519-354-8338.
