Recording the concert version of the Tailor of Gloucester are music composer Michael Huseman (left) and actors Alex Champion, MaKayla Petriccione, Zachary Huseman and Lauren Hayes
The Chattanooga Theatre Centre will kick off a holiday season of theatre with an original musical adaptation of Beatrix Potter’s beloved tale The Tailor of Gloucester. The production, a concert version adapted for the stage by Grammy Award-winning composer Michael Huseman and Theatre Centre Education & Outreach Director Chuck Tuttle, will be staged for one performance only on Saturday, Nov. 18, at 7 p.m.
The show, which is appropriate for children and their families, presents a heartwarming holiday tale of a penniless tailor and his little mouse companions. Published in 1903, Ms. Potter’s story tells the tale of a poor tailor trying to survive in his freezing workshop over a hard winter. He has a terribly important commission to complete for the mayor of Gloucester's wedding on Christmas Day but is ill and tired. How will he possibly complete the beautiful coat and embroidered waistcoat? Luckily, there lives in the dresser some very kind and very resourceful mice who set about helping the poor tailor with his work.
The Theatre Centre production, with music and additional lyrics by Mr. Huseman, was created for the Theatre Centre’s musical theatre program featuring young actors participating in the theatre’s Summer Academy. This concert version features adult and young people in the roles. A recording of the show is being prepared for broadcast on local radio.
Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. for a holiday reception before the performance. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased by calling 267-8534, by visiting TheatreCentre.com, or at the door.