Across the Universe with Rock on the Rock Choirs

First rehearsals Thursday, Jan. 29 at 3:30 p.m. for kids, 5 p.m. for adults at Orcas Center

— by Grace McCune —

Returning to the Orcas Center is the next series of children and adult “Rock on the Rock” choirs for 2015. These choirs, which will culminate into a musical theater benefit concert for Orcas Center, will be performing music from the 2007 movie musical, Across the Universe. This musical is a tapestry of Beatles songs spun into a narrative where songs and characters weave a tale of love and revolution. With musical and co-stage direction by me, this concert version of Across the Universe will be accompanied by the technical and co-stage direction of Jake Perrine and producer, Deborah Sparks.

After the success of Moulin Rouge last year, Jake Perrine and I are shooting for an even grander adventure for these choirs that include more choreography by Kara O’Toole and Laura Ludwig’s dance classes, as well as a live band with local, top notch players. If you have always wanted to sing with a group, this is a great environment for new and experienced singers alike.

The children’s choir, the Youth Troupe, ages 6-13, will meet every Thursday afternoon from 3:30-4:30 p.m. starting January 29th for 14 weeks. They will be learning songs, such as, “Twist and Shout” as well as “Imagine.” In addition to learning the songs, the Youth Troupe will also learn choreography by Laura Ludwig taught on the same day.

Rock on the Rock Singers will meet every Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m., starting January 29th for 14 weeks. These singers will get to learn a variety of songs from the musical as well as the opportunity to audition for the characters with solos.

Rehearsals for both groups will be held in the Madrona Room at the Orcas Center. The benefit concerts will be May 8-9, and 15-16. To register for either choir class, show up on the day and time of the first rehearsal. There are no auditions. The cost is $120 for the 14-week series.

Adding choreography to the production is Kara O’Toole’s Monday night modern dance class for intermediate and advanced teen and adult dancers. Starting February 23, her 5:30-7 PM class will begin a 10 week dance/choreography session ($90 for all) at Orcas Center. Contact her at directly at Orcas Center (376-2281 x 3) if you are interested in joining the dance brigade!

Laura Ludwig’s dance class for ages 8-12 willbe held at Odd Fellows Hall on Tuesdays 3:20-4:20pm. Kid’s will explore jazz, modern technique, creative movement & choreography in a fun environment. Contact Laura at findlaurabee@yahoo.com for more information.