INA, Ill. (May 16, 2024) - Toward the end of each school year, the Rend Lake College theater is filled with laughter as “Flummoxed Fairy Tales” takes center stage, captivating hundreds of young minds from grade schools in the college's district. This annual performance has become a much-anticipated event in the college community, showcasing the talent and hard work of RLC students, particularly those from the Thespians Club. Written and directed by the gifted Tracey Webb, this year's show presented an inventive twist on age-old fairy tales, turning the familiar into something new and exciting.
“Flummoxed Fairy Tales” reimagines classic stories like Rapunzel, Snow White, Little Red Riding Hood, The Prince and the Frog, among others, introducing audiences to a world where the expected narrative takes a delightful detour. The performances were not only entertaining but also demonstrated the creativity of RLC thespians. With each twist and turn of the story, the audience was kept on the edge of their seats, eager to see how these well-known tales would unfold in unexpected ways.
MEET THE CAST - FRONT ROW, FROM LEFT, are; Livi Edmonds (Christopher), Cole Dagner (Valier), Jayme Soldan (Valier), Seyah Schernakau (Mt. Vernon), Sabrina Cherry (Mt. Vernon), Brianna Johnson (McLeansboro), Emma Milby (Benton) and Asher Bates (Sesser). MIDDLE ROW, FROM LEFT, are; Payton Heater (Benton) and Daven Ort (Mt. Vernon). BACK ROW, FROM LEFT, are; Dayton Sanchez (Benton), Sean May (McLeansboro), Samuel Beusking (Mt. Vernon), Taylor Wilburn (Benton), Beckett Wilder (Benton), Chase Heinemeyer (Pinckneyville), Caleb Qualls (Sesser) and Conner Teriet (Salem).
One of the highlights of the event was the interactive Q & A session that followed the show. This provided a platform for young minds to engage directly with the cast, asking questions about the production process, rehearsals, and the challenges faced during the performance. It was a “behind-the-scenes” experience that offered the kids a glimpse into the world of theater production, from concept to curtain call.
Such interactions are invaluable; they not only demystify the art of theater but also inspire a new generation of performers and theater enthusiasts. Our RLC students, many of whom are members of the RLC Thespians Club, relished the opportunity to share their experiences, shedding light on the dedication and passion that drives a successful show.
“Flummoxed Fairy Tales” exemplifies the power of theatre to bring communities together, to entertain, educate, and inspire. The success of this year’s performance is a testament to the talent and hard work of everyone involved, from the visionary direction of Tracey Webb to the exceptional performances of our students.
The next opportunity to get involved with RLC Theatre will be the annual fall play. Auditions are held in early September. Check back for more details, or subscribe to our news blog.