The leads in Xanadu are both teenagers from Milford. They are Jaxon Beirne and Jaden Bonfietti-Csvihinka.
Award-winning Pantochino Productions Inc., a professional, non-profit theatre company specializing in family theatre, presents its Teen Theatre production, “Xanadu Jr.” on Feb. 28 and March 1 at the Center for the Arts in Downtown Milford.
Pantochino Teen Theatre gives young actors, 13 to 18 years old, the chance to learn, work and grow in a professional environment outside of school. Pantochino’s producers Bert Bernardi and Jimmy Johansmeyer lead the program, with resident musical director Justin Rugg.
The show features 14 young actors from New Haven and Fairfield counties.
“We are thrilled to welcome these talented actors who are traveling to us from all over the area including Fairfield, Monroe, Easton and as far north as Durham,” said Johansmeyer. “They have been working hard and are full of energy and excitement.”
“Xanadu Jr.” is based on the 1980 film musical starring Olivia Newtown John. The original screenplay was written by Richard Danus and Marc Rubel. It is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
“This show was the perfect choice for our Teen Theatre project,” said director Bernardi. “It’s an inventive mash up of mythology and disco with a sassy sense of humor and great characters for the kids to play.”
“The music is all from the Electric Light Orchestra songbook and the kids really enjoy singing these pop tunes,” said Rugg. The score includes “I’m Alive,” “Evil Woman” and “All Over the World” to name a few.
“Xanadu Jr.” will take place on Saturday, Feb. 28, at 5:30 p.m., and Sunday, March 1, at 2 p.m., at the Center for the Arts, 40 Railroad Avenue in Downtown Milford.
Reservations are suggested and available by calling 203-937-6206. Further information is available at pantochino.com.