Blue Forest Theatre Academy invites the community to dive into the enchanting world of “James and the Giant Peach Jr.” on Nov. 20 and “Into the Woods Jr.” on Nov. 22. Both performances will take place at Virginia Military Institute’s Gillis Theater.
“James and the Giant Peach Jr.” will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 20, with the Academy’s third- to seventh-graders guiding audiences across the ocean alongside James and his oversized insect friends. The evening will also include a short production by the youngest performers in kindergarten through second grade titled “Tiny and Talented.”
Two older casts featuring students from eighth to 12th grade will then present “Into the Woods Jr.,” intertwining familiar fairy tales as they explore what “happily ever after” truly means. Performances are scheduled for Nov. 22 at 1, 3, 6 and 7:30 p.m.
Early bird tickets are available before Nov. 20. Blue Forest Theatre Academy has brought art to life each year through musical theater productions since 2019. Supported by the Buena Vista Arts Council, this nonprofit theatre company gives hundreds of young performers a space to grow as confident and collaborative artists.
Founded and directed by Kim Hirt, an educator and performer with a BFA in music, dance and theatre, the Academy provides training in acting, music, and movement that fosters both skill and self-expression. Through semester-long workshops, Blue Forest produces theatrical pieces for students ranging from kindergarten through 12th grade, offering young performers hands on opportunities to create, collaborate, and shine onstage.
“It is my absolute privilege to see these young actors grow not only as performers, but as people,” said Hirt. “We continually strive to create an environment where they can thrive, feel safe to take creative risks, and be a part of something bigger than themselves.”
Throughout the years, Blue Forest has produced numerous youth-centered shows such as “Matilda,” “Newsies,” and “Fiddler on the Roof.” In 2023, the Academy expanded to include adult productions, debuting with “The Importance of Being Earnest.”
“BFTA is a true family,” said one current actress. “They’re always there for you no matter what. I truly love being apart of this process and making so many memories with each show we perform.”
Tickets are available at https://www.rockbridgetheater.com/ shows.
