The Community Players of Hobbs are recruiting young performers from the area to act in Aladdin Jr., being this year’s selected performance for the 2021 Youth Performance Arts Workshop (YPAW). This is the 12th year that the Community Players of Hobbs have hosted YPAW.
Aladdin Jr. features the main character from the familiar Disney story, and tells the tale of him and his three friends, Babkak, Omar, and Kassim. Like the original, the down-on-their-luck youngsters find their fortunes changed when they hear about a magical lamp that could grant their wishes.
In addition to its expanded cast, the play includes all-new songs, all of which are heavily influenced by the 1992 Disney classic. The song lyrics were written by Howard Ashman, Tim Rice, and Chad Beguelin, each of whom has been involved in at least one major Disney production.
While training for the July performance, participants will learn all of the basics of a theatrical production. Along with foundational skills such as gaining an understanding of theater terminology and stage movement, participants will learn performance skills such as singing and dancing. Technically oriented participants will gain experience with make-up techniques and scene painting and preparation.
Participants between the ages of 9-18 have been invited to register for the play, though only 35 spots are available. Any youth chosen for the event will have their assigned tasks tailored to their age and skill level. Due to staffing requirements, all of the workshops for the event will be held in the evening. Registrations must be received by June 1st; however, registrations will close when 35 spots have been filled.
The performances of Aladdin Jr. will be held from July 15-18. To register online, click this link.
Though Aladdin Jr. is designed for the youth, the Community Players of Hobbs aren’t slouching when it comes to adult-oriented offerings. From May 14 to the 23rd, the theater will be giving performances of Elton John and Tim Rice’s musical, AIDA. From the promotional materials, the play is “a triumphant love story between an Egyptian captain and a slave” that “transcends warring nations and brings a country together.” Tickets for AIDA can be purchased here.
