From November 9 to November 16, Pleasanton youth performed their production of Beetlejuice JR. at the Firehouse Arts Center. The show was based on the eight-time Tony-nominated Broadway musical, Beetlejuice.
“It’s more lively, and I feel like it’s more fun than just staring at a screen. When they’re actually in front of you… you like it more,” said attendee Scarlett Burns (‘29).
A shorter, kid-friendly cut
There were many shows, with various starting times. All in all, each show lasted for roughly an hour and a half.
“I was expecting it to be a little longer, but I think because of the length… I think the little ones would enjoy it,” said attendee Patty Sherzer.
Program directors adapted the show to be shorter and more appropriate for younger audiences. Despite slight adjustments and song cuts, the main theme and story remained intact.
“Everything’s better live anyway. It was just fantastic to see it all performed and right in front of me since I was in the first row,” said Sherzer.
Beyond being a night-out for the family, many see the musical as an important to children’s development, helping them exercise their creativity.
[Children] need to watch this theatrical stuff because it has to live on. I mean, we can’t just take it away—it’s entertainment! And I think that a lot of them enjoy it. This one actually was not even spooky where they would scare the children.” said Sherzer.
A soundtrack full of energy
Youth actors performed notable songs from the musical, such as “Girl Scout” and “The Whole ‘Being Dead’ Thing.” The soundtrack blends orchestral, rock, and electronic styles. Moreover, some parts of the songs feature death metal screams, while other sections feature choir harmonies, showcasing the talent of the performers.
“My favorite scene or song from the show was probably when… Adam and Barbara just died, and Beetlejuice and all his little minions are like ‘dead, dead, dead,’” said Burns.
Other songs featured dancing. Miss Argentina and her dead ensemble tangoed to “What I Know Now.” In the first act, Beetlejuice’s minions performed a tap dance.
“[My favorite was] definitely ‘That Beautiful Sound.’ Even though I wasn’t in it, I loved the tap song,” said performer Maria Adams.
Aside from the music, attendees noted the production and behind-the-scenes work.
“The costumes were fantastic, and the face makeup, and I actually enjoyed the scenery as well. I think they did a really good job on that,” said Sherzer.
Cast camaraderie
Still, a show this cohesive did not come without hours of work and practice.
“I think we started in September, maybe late August,” said Adams.
Over the hours of rehearsals, the two casts became close on and off stage, both through and outside of their rehearsals.
“We all goofed off backstage, but we made an amazing show, so that’s really good,” said Adams.
Overall, the show not only gave families an entertaining night-out, but also gave young actors a chance to showcase their talent and step onstage.
“I would definitely recommend for others to see this show. Like I said, it was fantastic. Even the little ones would be entertained, so I think they would really enjoy it as well,” said Sherzer.
