Youth learn from theatre groups to produce Beetlejuice Jr.

Nearly 40 area youth in a summer theater camp this month at the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts aren't just learning lines, they're gaining life skills.

Through acting rehearsals and technical backstage work creating sets, props, and costumes, they are practicing teamwork, discipline, focus, active listening, empathy, time management, adaptability, communication skills, and respectful feedback. And, they're building confidence and exploring creativity.

Their final product: two public performances of the musical "Beetlejuice Jr." on Aug. 1 and Aug. 2. But the lessons, directors say, will last a lifetime.

Their frightfully funny musical, produced by the Rising Starz youth camp in partnership with Pitt State Theatre and Pittsburg Community Theatre, is based on the beloved motion picture-turned Broadway phenomenon.

"Beetlejuice" was nominated for eight 2019 Tony Awards including Best New Musical. It especially struck a chord with young theatre lovers, who adored its unabashed humor and emotional honesty.

Several Pitt State grads are providing leadership to the Rising Starz camp, including Alex Chesney (director), Whitley Chesney (assistant and music director), Michelle Atchley (choreographer), and Megan Westhoff, Linden Little, Lisa Quinteros, and Jon Eastman (tech).

Show summary:

In this tongue-in-cheek show, Lydia Deetz is a strange and unusual teenager, still grieving the loss of her mother and obsessed with the whole "being dead thing." Lucky for Lydia, she and her father move to a new house haunted by a recently deceased couple and Beetlejuice, a delightful demon with a real zest for life. When Lydia calls on Beetlejuice to scare away anyone with a pulse, this double-crossing specter shows his true stripes, unleashing pandemonium.

Created for the generation that made it a hit, "Beetlejuice Jr." is a wacky theatrical party for all!

Showtimes: 7 p.m. Aug. 1 or Aug. 2!

Tickets: $12 at the door (cash or using a QR code to pay digitally).

Learn more about Pitt State Theatre

Learn more about the Bicknell Center and upcoming performances