Bucks Co. Teen Stars, Writers To Perform Playhouse Show

NEW HOPE, PA — At the Bucks County Playhouse in July, patrons can enjoy 75 minutes of song, dance, story, and scene in the Playhouse Youth Company’s new offering, “Dream Awake.”

Written by and starring eleven young women from throughout the region, “Dream Awake” will run from July 22 - July 25, with shows daily at 2 p.m. and 6:30 pm. The cast, ages 14 - 17, were selected by audition for the conservatory-style summer program. They’ll be performing on the stage where Robert Redford, Jessica Walters, and Grace Kelly began their careers.

“Using their dreams, both subconscious and aspirational, as a springboard, the company has created a theatrical experience that is insightful, funny, moving, and full of surprises,” said BCP’s Director of Education, Michaela Murphy. “And in the process, the cast, who did not know each other, quickly became a daring and creative ensemble: they work hard, are not afraid to make mistakes, and are ever ready to cheer on the success of their peers.”

The Playhouse Youth Company not only worked on building a show together, but attended workshops and classes to build on their performance skills. Now in its eighth year, the five-week intensive training program allows students to learn from working Broadway artists, rehearse a professionally-produced show daily, and put on local outreach performances.

This year’s show is particularly poignant, as live performance during the COVID-19 pandemic had been little more than a memory.

“For all of us on the creative team, it has been a joy to work with these incredible young women: they have re-awakened the hope, wonder, and magic of live theater after a dark and challenging time,” Murphy said. “Their show is a blast and a wonderful invitation to remember what it is to dream."

“Dream Awake” is directed by Rory McGregor and choreographed by Dani Tucci-Juraga, with music direction by Kyle Duke. The creative team includes Set Designer Tom Watson, Lighting Supervisor Sarah Schmoyer, Costume Supervisor Josh Moss, and Sound Supervisor Ryan Walsh. Alexandra Kostis is production stage manager.

This year's Youth Company represents 11 different high schools and middle schools in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The cast includes:

Serenity Boffa — Langhorne, PA, Neshaminy High School
Kailey Bredeson — Milford, CT, Delaware Valley High School
Hannah Chieffo — Churchville, PA, Holland Middle School
Olivia Davis-Eagan — Doylestown, PA, Central Bucks West High School
Lexi Healy — New Hope, PA, New Hope Solebury Middle School
Jessica Holliday — Annandale, NJ, North Hunterton High School
Makayla McClintic — Jamison, PA, Central Bucks South High School
Maya Micsion — Washington Crossing, PA, Council Rock North High School
Adele Ricci — Frenchtown, NJ, River Valley Waldorf School
Maeve Sheehan — Doylestown, PA, New Hope Solebury High School
Cassidy Summerville — Levittown, PA, Harry S. Truman High School

Tickets are $20 plus fees, and can be purchased online, by calling 215-862-2121, or by visiting the box office at 70 South Main St. Patrons save 20 percent when buying four or more tickets.

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Got tips, story ideas, or questions in Lower Bucks County? Email kate.fishman@patch.com.