Photos courtesy of Mark Garvin Photography. Interior photo of Jerry Spinelli courtesy of Kevin E. McPherson Photography.
Malvern’s People’s Light & Theatre presents Jerry Spinelli’s Stargirl running Saturday, April 20th through Sunday, March 12, 2013 on the Main Stage. Samantha Bellomo directs.
People’s Light & Theatre presents the world premiere of Stargirl by Y York, based on the novel of Newbery Award-winning author Jerry Spinelli. Running April 20-May 12, 2013 on the Main Stage. Samantha Bellomo directs.
When an eccentric homeschooler arrives at Mica Area High School, hallways buzz with texts, whispers fill the air, and 11th grader Leo Borlock’s life is changed forever. With her colorful costumes, ukulele, pet rat, and unique view of the world, Stargirl lives every moment to the fullest and challenges those around her to do the same. This beloved story celebrates first love, non-conformity, and the similarities that connect us all, and is sure to delight audiences of all ages. This production marks the fifth collaboration between playwright Y York and People’s Light & Theatre. Other productions include: The Forgiving Harvest, Afternoon of the Elves, Getting Near to Baby, and Eggs (also by Jerry Spinelli).
“I was teaching at a fine arts academy for 6th-8th graders at the time Stargirl was published, and I remember buying extra copies of the book to have in my classroom because the librarian couldn’t keep it on the shelves,” states production dramaturg Wendy Bable. “It was more in-demand than Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. It seemed to make such a positive impact on the reader, no matter what their age. It’s one of those stories that you never forget.”
Local author, Jerry Spinelli, has written more than 30 books including Stargirl, Crash, Loser, Milkweed, Knots in My Yo-Yo String, Maniac Magee, and his latest Hokey Pokey. Accolades for Stargirl include: New York Times Bestseller, Parents Choice Gold Award, American Library Association’s Top Ten Best Books Award, and Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year. Jerry’s books have reached millions of young people and many of his novels are regularly taught in school districts locally and worldwide.
Jerry Spinelli has three dates planned where fans can meet him before 2pm performances for a book signing: Sunday, April 21st, Saturday, May 4th, and Saturday, May 11th at 1pm.
Saige Hassler, who plays the role of Stargirl, has been performing at People’s Light & Theatre since age 6 when she appeared in Ibsen’s A Doll’s House. She participated in theatre classes and the Summerstage program for many years. At 18, Saige joined the Resident Company of actors at People’s Light and has been in over 20 productions.
Jerry Spinelli Special Book Signings
Mr. Spinelli has three dates planned where fans can meet him before 2pm performances for a book signing: Sunday, April 21st, Saturday, May 4th, and Saturday, May 11th at 1pm.
Stargirl Facebook Page
People’s Light will maintain a “Stargirl at People’s Light” Facebook page that will share in-depth information, images, and video on the making of the production (facebook.com/porcupinenecktie).
Ticket Information
Stargirl opens on Saturday, April 20 at 7 pm and runs through May 12. Audiences are encouraged to join the artists after each performance to discuss the making of the production.
PNC Access half-price tickets are available for performances on Thursday, April 25 at 7pm and Sunday, May 5 at 7 pm.
Single tickets: Adults: $35-$40, Youth: $25. For tickets, visit peopleslight.org or call the Box Office at 610.644.3500. Special discounts are available for groups of 10 or more. For more information or to purchase group tickets, call 610.647.1900 x134 or email charles@peopleslight.org.
People’s Light & Theatre is located at 39 Conestoga Road, Malvern, PA 19355. For tickets call 610.644.3500 or visit peopleslight.org.
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