The critically acclaimed Barnstable Summer Family Theater, brings down the final curtain this summer, with their original production of The Reluctant Dragon.
The theatrical piece was co-written by Jim Hill and Barnstable teacher and drama director John Sullivan. The music utilized for the Reluctant Dragon was written by Andrew Rapo, who served as the Summer Theater’s first musical director while still a junior attending Barnstable High School.
"It’s a generational thing," says Sullivan. "We have many cast members who have been with us over the years. Many from the first year we started."
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The play boasts a large cast of 125, with many more people working behind the scenes.
"Might as well go out with a bang," says Sullivan, whose theater philosophy has been summed up as "go big or go home."
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Also returning from the first production will be Peter Murray (as St. George) and Dave Sweet (as the shephard). John Sullivan will play the role of the showbiz loving dragon, who would rather be "a lover, not a fighter".
Kris Lariviere Hill, who orchestrated the music, will also be serving as the musical director for her second time.
"John doesn’t like to do things the same way twice," said Hill. "So he’s changed the structure of the play, added more jokes and two new songs written by Andrew Rapo and lyricist Clayton Stang."
Rapo recently moved back from California and says he is thrilled his three children will be in a "Sullivan Show" before Sullivan retires.
Sullivan himself has stated that this will be his final performance. "This is sort of my retirement party," said Sullivan.
Sullivan, who has served in Barnstable as a teacher and drama director, will be retiring in January 2012.
The Reluctant Dragon opens on Thursday July 7.
Shows will also be held on July 8, July 12-15 and July 19 – 22. All performances will be held at the Barnstable High School Performing Arts Center, located at 744 west Main Street, Hyannis. All shows start at 7pm. Tickets are 10 dollars. For reservations call 508 771 6246. More information can be found at www.bhsdc.org.
