When TV statistician Walt (TJ Kelly) is contracted by his boss Tony (Lewis Elson) to create a hit soap opera, he's given conditions meant to push the show out as fast as possible and guarantee a network hit: One, the show must include broad subjects that everyone likes. Two, nothing that is written into the show may be unwritten; mistakes must be written around. With the help of his muse, Dill (Rachel Steffens), he writes the bizarre soap opera "Lustful Youth,” creating outrageous caricatures inspired by real people in his life. Soon the lines between fiction and reality blur and chaos ensues. Do people like the show? Will Walt find success? Also, why the heck are there pirates? Tune in on January 9th to find out!
“R.I.P. Shakespeare. You would have loved Lustful Youth.” - Rachel Steffens (Dill). Lustful Youth is a larger-than-life romance, with violence, and comedy. First-time director Kait Wilson has typically music directed or acted in shows in the past. She was inspired to direct Lustful Youth after joining an improv troupe in 2010 run by the show’s playwright, Mike Eserkaln, and subsequently viewing Mike’s production of the show. Wilson is thrilled that both the cast and crew are dedicated to breathing life into her uproarious vision.
“Lustful Youth is a ridiculous comedy that manages to be over-the-top and heartwarming at the same time. The actors have the characters to life in their own unique and creative ways, and the production team has been completely committed to making sure all of the theatrical elements work together to help tell this hysterical story. Riverwalk Theatre is an amazing and supportive community and I’m privileged to be able to contribute to their 36th Season!”
This cast is full of well-known Lansing performers, all incredibly talented in their own right. TJ Kelly is well-cast as the Walter, , doing everything he can to write something people will enjoy. The small size of the cast enables every supporting
performers to shine, each playing multiple characters. For instance, Lewis Elson flawlessly swaps between British and American accents to differentiate between Walter’s boss “Tony,” and Lustful Youth’s character “Jake I.” Allison Meyer shows off her wide acting range as well, playing both Tony’s timid intern, “Deb,” and “May,” the stereotypical soap opera “sexpot” character on Lustful Youth.
Friendly faces can be seen backstage as well, with Riverwalk’s favorite Matt Ottinger in charge of sound design. Costume Anna and Kristine Maier have been having fun putting together a wide variety of costumes, ranging from typical office wear to over-the-top pirate garb.
The show includes both intimacy and violence so actors need to get comfortable trusting one another onstage. Thankfully, the physical and emotional safety of these actors is supported by Connor Kelly, fight choreographer, as well as Shannon Bowen, intimacy coordinator. These two play a large role in making sure the moments that look the most unscripted are both safe and predictable for those involved with production.
Lustful Youth won’t be a show you want to miss! With a little bit of something for everyone, the show manages to be both funny, and strangely touching. Grab those tickets now!
Show Dates:
Thursday, January 9th, 7:00 P.M.
Friday, January 10th, 8:00 P.M.
Saturday, January 11th, 8:00 P.M.
Sunday, January 12th, 2:00 P.M.
Thursday, January 16th, 7:00 P.M.
Friday, January 17th, 8:00 P.M.
Saturday, January 18th, 8:00 P.M.
Sunday, January 19th, 2:00 P.M.
Standard tickets for this performance are $15. Senior/Student/Military tickets are available for $12, as well as Children's tickets (12 and under) for $10. Tickets can be purchased both in the box office, and on our website: http://www.riverwalktheatre.com