On Saturday, Aug. 1 at 10 a.m., members of the community will be treated to a production of The SeussOdyssey performed by students of Tryon Fine Arts Center and Tryon Little Theater’s collaborative summer theater camp. The performance on the Veh Stage at Tryon Fine Arts Center is open to the public. The camp is held annually with the goal of providing an intensive theater educational opportunity for acting and elements of production to local children.

All students participating in the camp are 8-13 years old. Camp is held Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., leading up to a full performance on Saturday. Students meet at Sunnydale Monday through Thursday and at TFAC on Friday and Saturday. Costumes, sets, props, lights/sound, and publicity are all predesigned but students will have the opportunity to assist with and learn about each of these elements. For example, students will assist in the building of needed set pieces and costumes.

The SeussOdyssey, a one-act play written by playwright Don Zolidis, is a retelling of Homer’s class epic poem The Odyssey, written in a style similar to that used by famous children’s author Dr. Seuss. The play will be a family-friendly affair.

The staff includes director Marianne Carruth, producer/coordinator Jody McPherson, light designer Sara Seagle, publicity manager Grace Marshall, set designers Lindsey and Elisabeth Moore and sound designer Jimm Brink.

Kate Riedy, Jamie Riedy, Maggie Riedy, Avery Hamrick, Julien Besnard and Grace Ingham will also assist with various elements of production such as make-up, sound, and backstage assistance.

“The students will complete the week with a sense of accomplishment and understanding of what it takes to work with their peers and put on a performance from start to finish,” said Carruth. “We’re going to have a great time!”

No admission is required for this performance. However donations, of course, are greatly welcomed and appreciated. For more information on the camp or the performance, please contact Marianne Carruth at 828-859-8322, ext. 211, or visit tryonarts.org.

-Submitted by Grace Marshall