This summer, a keen troupe of dedicated youth are not sitting on the couch playing video games or glued to a screen, but rather spending two weeks preparing to launch Life and Times, a local, all-youth musical revue that is sure to raise the roof.

"Theatre is an excellent opportunity for youth to gain confidence, meet new friends and explore talent they may not have known they had," said Matt Evans, Executive Director of The Roxy Theatre. "Youth can inspire other youth! We, as adults, struggle to explain to young teens the benefits of getting involved in projects like this. Seeing is believing; if you bring your child or grandchild to this show, they will see other kids just like them sing, dance and act and that may inspire them to try it out for themselves," added Evans, who has spent most of his career working in the field of youth motivation and engagement. "We are committed, with support from the Leflar Foundation, to helping children and youth find their voice."

Life and Times: A Musical Revue about Growing Up was held Friday, July 27th at East Ridge Community School. Broadway-inspired, it incorporates songs from contemporary musicals like The Greatest Showman, Hairspray, 13, Spring Awakening, Dog Fight, Dear Evan Hansen and Thoroughly Modern Millie.

Director, Christy Eaglesham, says, "It is a heartfelt and poignant look into the richly layered lives of teens and pre-teens as they navigate a world that is as challenging as it is beautiful. Their humour, strength and resilience in the face of adversity reveals a deep love and hope for the future...one they will each carve out with thoughtfulness and anticipation."

Christy is a force of nature in her own right. She is a professional singer/actor who has performed on stages across Canada and the U.S. She has shared the stage with many celebrities including Ben Vereen, Neil Sedaka, The Temptations, The Platters and Bob Hope. Christy has spent the last two decades sharing her expertise with students of all ages across Ontario. She is a respected and highly sought after voice teacher and drama coach.

The production is co-directed by Priscilla Taylor, who adapted the show and designed the choreography. Priscilla also comes with an impressive theatrical resume. Rounding out the production team are local youth Gillian Hallman, Scott Dixon and Monika Salyte.

source: media release, The Roxy Theatre