Listen up, lovers of musicals and animals … be sure to make a date with the most adorable puppies in the history of theatre and movies.
The family favourite 101 Dalmatians is coming to Barrhead on February 22 and 23, courtesy of Drama for Children.
Of course, while the pups may melt your hearts, a certain someone will probably have the opposite effect.
So brace yourselves for one of the most foul-tempered, fashion-obsessed, conniving, manipulative, cackling and thoroughly evil villains imaginable: Cruella De Vil.
Yes, the wealthy woman with a lust for furs who wants to wear a dalmatian coat will shock and appall once again with her dastardly intentions.
Barrhead-based Drama for Children is in its eighth year and director Dale Clark is hoping for a bumper attendance to do justice to the hard work put in by children and help cover expenses.
Previously the group has put on such classics as Beauty and the Beast, which proved a blowout success.
“We would love to sell out,” Clark said last Saturday.
Twenty-two youngsters aged five to 16 from Barrhead and the surrounding area, Neerlandia, Fort Assiniboine and Westlock have been busy rehearsing for the musical, which is based on Dodie Smith’s novel and Bill Peet’s screenplay.
With first night less than two weeks away, final touches are being added to the production. This includes tweaking costumes and make-up to ensure colour combinations create maximum impact.
Clark said 101 Dalmatians was chosen because of its wonderful music and the opportunity offered to actors and choreographers to stretch themselves.
“I love the story and think it’s a great play,” she said.
The iconic role of Cruella De Vil is being played by Janisse Breitkreuz on Feb. 22 and Cassandra McKeever the next day.
“I like to have two for such a part in case one falls sick,” said Clark.
But that is not the only reason. Clark said both Janisse and Cassandra had learned from each other’s interpretation of Cruella, gaining an extra acting perspective.
For Cassandra, playing such a famous villain is a great opportunity as she pursues her ambitions to become a professional actor.
“It is a wonderful role,” she said.
Those expecting 101 Dalmatians should scale down their expectations. There will be just eight, a more manageable number for the stage.
“They are the stars of the show,” said Clark.
Performances start at 7:30 p.m. at Barrhead Composite High School drama theatre and last about 75 minutes. Tickets cost $12 and can be bought at Rexall. For those wondering whether to go, here’s something to consider.
“I can promise there will be a ‘wow factor’ in it,” said Clark.
