Virginia Repertory Theatre announces its fall show for kids and families, The Emperor’s New Clothes, running from October 20 through November 12. The musical is based on the original story by Hans Christian Andersen, and adapted by Richard Giersch with music and lyrics by Jason Marks of Richmond fame, who is also the musical director. Jan Guarino will direct. The cast includes Ian Page, Corey Powell, Destin Scott, Sawyer Fitch, Audrey Snyder, Clarence Ilanan, Chandler James Pettus, Hannah Chester, Emma Robinson, Joey Gravins and Erin Chaves.
The musical is most appreciated by children ages four to ten, and will be presented in the Jessie Bogese Theatre at Virginia Rep Center for Arts and Education. The theatre is located at 4204 Hermitage Road in the Bellevue area, in the former Scottish Rite Temple which Virginia Rep bought in the fall of 2022. The theatre holds 650 people so bring the whole family. [Read about Virginia Rep Center in RFM.]
The classic fable is brought to life in this Hans Christian Andersen story of greed and privilege. When it comes to fashion and just about everything, this emperor knows it all, or so he thinks. The emperor has decreed that color and music are banned from the kingdom and are only allowed in his castle. Two charlatans persuade the emperor that they have the world’s most exquisite fabric. The emperor pays these fake tailors a fortune for his new clothes, but when he parades through town in his new wardrobe, a good-hearted, honest child shouts out what everyone else is thinking.
Tickets are $21 at VirginiaRep.org or call the Box Office at 804-282-2620
Subscriptions are available for the entire Children’s Season, including The Santa Clues, Chasing George Washington: A White House Adventure, Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience and Dragons Love Tacos.
