Alice in Wonderland, Jr. cast makes special appearance

The cast of Alice in Wonderland, Jr. had a great time yesterday performing at the Children’s Museum.

The kids performed excerpts from the show for the museum’s monthly Target Free Tuesday.

Caileigh Potter, 12, of Hyde Park, plays Violet, and enjoys being part of the Patel Conservatory Youth Theater program.

“It gives people our age an idea of what it feels like to be in a big production,” said Potter. “I just love being [at the Patel Conservatory]. Whenever I leave, I can’t wait to come back.”

The kids in PCYT agree that the program allows kids the full experience of being in a professional show, from the beginning of the year when they begin their theatrical training to the choreography and sets of the stage production.

“It really gives me the chance to progress and enhance my skills,” said Lauren Lehner, 12, of Davis Island. Lehner plays Daisy, and has been involved with PCYT for a few years. She was in PCYT’s School House Rock and Annie. “I love the people. Working with these people every day, you become great friends.”

Marisa Pettet, 12, of Riverview, who plays Petunia, also enjoys being with people who have the same interests and goals.

“You meet a lot of friends who like to do the same thing,” said Pettet. This is Pettet’s first year with PCYT, Jr. She’s done many plays through school and other groups, but says she’s learned a lot at the Patel Conservatory.

“I learned a lot in the acting class, and in dance, too, now I want to take dance,” she said.

PCYT includes acting, dance and vocal training to prepare students for the world of musical theater. “It gets you ready for professional theater,” said Pettet.

During the year, the kids also got the opportunity to see shows at the Straz Center, and to work with cast members of Wonderland and Billy Elliott.

“I learned to keep trying,” said Lehner of having Broadway actors visit her class. “You can go to an audition, and not get the part and it may have nothing to do with you. You just have to keep trying.”

If you’re interested in being involved with youth theater, come check out Alice in Wonderland, Jr. playing April 14-16, and April 21-23.


Register now for PCYT's summer production of Seussical Jr.!