Windsor Youth Present Colorful Tale of Love

Armed with a cast of uniquely strong vocalists, Windsor Youth Theatre is its spring production, which will take audience members on a journey to the Caribbean, where gods and peasants interact and love is a life or death matter.

In its 27th season, Windsor Youth Theatre now features young Windsor actors and vocalists between grades 6 and 12.

"This year, we have a lot of talent, which was a challenge for us," said Kelsey Fitzsimmons, one of the show's directors and an alumnus of the theatre.

"We wanted to find something for everybody to do, but it's very hard to make everybody happy (with so many talented vocalists), so we tried to give out as many solos as we could, because vocally we're really strong."

Let Patch save you time. Get great local stories like this delivered right to your inbox or smartphone every day with our free newsletter. Simple, fast sign-up here.

The song and dance-filled production stars Kirsten Mossberg as T Moune, a young peasant girl "on a journey to follow her love, and at the end she has to make a choice about love and her own death," Fitzsimmons said.

"It's deep, it's emotional for these kids. We really had to dig deep, go to those dark places and challenge them, but they're doing an excellent job. We're really proud of them."

Digging deep and helping the young actors develop on stage is something that will serve them well in life as well, according to Fitzsimmons.

Speaking as a dance teacher and drama enthusiast who grew up in Windsor Youth Theatre, Fitzsimmons said spending time on stage has contributed to her increased confidence.

"It's made me more confident as a mom, as a teacher, as a person. It gives you very good public speaking skills," she said.

"It gives you that extra push to overcome your fears, whether it be speaking to another human being when you're a teenager, whether it be dancing on a stage, singing on a stage. It can give you a lot of confidence that wouldn't be there without being on this stage."

Windsor Youth Theatre's production of "Once on This Island" will open Fri., May 11, 7:30 p.m at L.P. Wilson. Subsequent performances will be held on Sat., May 12 and a Mother's Day matinee on Sun., May 13 at 7:30 p.m. and 3 p.m., respectively.

Seating is general admission and tickets can be purchased at the door. Tickets cost $12; $10 for seniors and students.