By Debby Abe
Pierce College Theatre blasts off on a rock-and-roll flight to “Return to the Forbidden Planet”, May 29 to June 1.
This family-friendly musical tells the story of mad scientist Doctor Prospero, who’s unknowingly jettisoned into space with his infant daughter. Their craft crashes into D’Illyria, the Forbidden Planet, and the adventure begins.
Winner of the Olivier Award for Best Musical, the play by Bob Carlton is loosely based on the 1956 film, “Forbidden Planet,” a sci-fi version of William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest.”
The production features a 35-member cast of Pierce students and community members. A live, five-piece band, directed by Nate Benson, accompanies the cast as they belt out a raft of golden oldies, including “Good Vibrations” and “Born to be Wild.”
Kids should be on the lookout for robots and two-headed aliens. JoAnne Kirley, owner of Costumes, Period Inc. in Seattle, designed the costumes for this production. Danny Marshall of Pierce College designed the sets and lights. Speech and drama instructor Patrick Daugherty directed the play.
Pierce College Theatre: Return to the Forbidden Planet
Wednesday, May 29, through Saturday, June 1
7 p.m.
Pierce College Fort Steilacoom
Cascade Building, third floor, Studio 320
9401 Farwest Dr. SW
Lakewood, WA 98498
Tickets: $3 for general admission, $2 for Pierce College students with ID. Available at the door or in advance at the Fort Steilacoom Student Life office, Cascade Building, room 418, 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. weekdays.
More info: call (253) 964-6710 or (253) 964-7352.