Capital Area Productions
By: Vince Gallagher
It's another performance from Capital Area Productions, a children's theater
group that focuses on all sides of production.
Capital Area Productions President Kristina Kennedy Babcock said, "They work on sets, they work
on the props. Sometimes we even allow them to help with the dance moves, and I'm very open when the kids say, what about this,
can I try that? So we welcome that."
Their latest project is "Seussical," a musical inspired by the works of Dr. Seuss. After the audition
process, it's time for rehearsals.
Babcock said, "We bring the kids in typically two times a week for a couple of hours at a time
and build up to that process so they are learning their voices and their dancing and acting along the way."
After all this hard work, they're ready for opening night. And there's nothing like that feeling when the curtain
opens.
Performer Jennifer Gardy said, "It's really fun doing plays with friends because they pump you
up and everything, and I love going on stage and showing everybody what I got. "
Performer Jessica Babcock said, "I love performing in front of everybody. It's just something
that I like to do and when I grow up I want to be on Broadway."
And speaking of Broadway, the group took a trip to the legendary theater.
Babcock said, "This past year we did a workshop with 'Hairspray,' 'Phantom of the Opera' and 'Wicked.'
And we actually worked with a cast member, learned parts to the musical, learned New York City tips and trades and things
like that."
In addition to youth theater, Capital Area Productions also offers adult musicals and workshop
camps. And with a full professional staff of set designers and stage managers, it's an environment that really helps these
performers shine.
Babcock said, "Once they see the end product, they're really amazed, and I have many kids that
come back for every single production we do so that's a good thing."
Not just your "same old song and dance."