Children’s theatre can conjure up images of school recitals and awkward dances. For those of us visiting and living in the Adirondacks, there are many professional theatrical organizations lending their own brand of polish to provide a wonderful theatre experience.

Most recently Camp Pendragon Theatre wrapped up its summer camp program with two public performances of the musical Rags while the Depot Theatre’s Young Actor Apprentice Program‘s production of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit takes its final bow on August 10th at the Elizabethtown Community Center.  This weekend the Boquet River Theatre Festival is kicking off its 23rd season  with a musical montage of its most recent performances.

The Boquet River Theatre Festival (BRTF) provides two youth theatrical experiences. The Junior Program (ages 8-12) and Senior Program (ages 12 and up) focus on all aspects of a professional production that culminates in two live performances at the Whallonsburg Grange Hall.

This year the Senior Program is showcasing The Memory Album:A Musical Review  which coincides with Essex Day. Performances are August 5-6 at 7 pm with an August 7th matinee. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children. If you aren’t able to make the Senior show, make way for the Junior Program’s production of Suessical Junior August 12-13 at 7 pm with an August 14 matinee.

There is always a lot to do in Essex and the surrounding area so you can support the arts and these budding thespians. My family always likes to combine activities and take in a CATS hike, Essex Day or even the Essex County Fair. Enjoy!

Photo of the Boquet River Theatre Festival by BRTF Vice-President Jim Carroll of Overtime Photo Booth.