BIG RIVER: The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

(Sorry about the short notice; we just got this in the email today, 4/2/2014)

http://www.arts-express.org/building-careactor-program/

A one-of-a-kind performance of the Broadway hit Big River, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn will soon be presented by Arts Express to the Tucson community. In partnership with the Arizona School for the Deaf and Blind (ASDB) and directed by Emil Lamanda and Kate Scally Howell, the show features a talented cast of visually impaired, deaf, as well as seeing and hearing student actors. Using synchronized speaking and signing, this heartwarming American classic will be retold, bringing to life the unlikely friendship of Huck Finn and Jim, a runaway slave, as they travel down the mighty Mississippi. In order to give all students the opportunity to have a “speaking” role, the songs and dialogue of Big River will be sung/spoken and signed. Accordingly, some roles are double cast with ASL signers and speakers/singers. The audience will be seeing two similarly costumed student actors performing their single character side-by-side. Arts Express believes that offering a musical theater program integrating deaf or blind students with students that can see and hear, provides a rich environment for personal growth and community building for all students and the audience as well.

Big River’s story of Huck and Jim’s journey downstream is an American classic that captures the rhythms, sounds and spirit of life on the Mississippi. Propelled by an award-winning score performed by a combo of talented professional musicians, this joyous theatrical journey with its dazzling array of unforgettable characters is sure to delight the entire family. Arts Express’ Big River will be presented at the ASDB Berger Performing Arts Center, 1200 West Speedway, on Friday, April 4th at 7:00 pm, Saturday, April 5th at 7:00 pm and Sunday, April 6th at 3:00 pm. Tickets may be purchased on-line at http://www.arts-express.org or by calling (520) 319-0400.