LCC presents 'Emperor's New Clothes'

By Kaitlyn Delaney
Associate Editor/Photo Editor

LCC Performing Arts is performing “My Emperor’s New Clothes” this month in the newly renovated Dart Auditorium.

Shows began April 5, 6. Remaining performances are Friday, April 12 at 7 p.m., and Saturday, April 13 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for general admission, $10 for seniors, and $5 for students. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Dart Auditorium box office.

“My Emperor’s New Clothes” is an adaptation by Larry Shue of the fairy tale “The Emperor’s New Clothes” by Hans Christian Andersen.

The comedy features bright colors, music and dancing, and is fantastic for younger viewers. Despite being aimed more toward a younger audience, people of any age will have a joyous time watching this play, according to Director Paige Tufford.

Tufford, LCC’s performing arts coordinator, said she enjoys play the and appreciates the work the actors have been doing.

“What I love about this play, other than its children’s theater based on literature, which I think is fabulous, is the amount of energy the actors have when they’re playing to a young audience,” Tufford said. “And how they draw the audience in with all of the music, and the dancing, and the interaction between the characters and the audience, which is what makes children’s theater so fun.”

"My Emperor's New Clothes" is being staged in Dart Auditorium.  Photo by Kaitlyn Delaney


Tufford added she believes in the importance of the message in the play and original story.

“I guess the message that they talk about in the play, and in the story too, is to not parade your intelligence around, you know, to lord it over people, or make yourself seem more important than other people,” Tufford said. “So, to be more humble.

“But also, I want the audience (to be comprised) of all ages. I think this is really appropriate for from 5 years (old) to 99. My hope is that the audience will allow themselves to play; to step outside of everyday adult things and just have fun and enjoy themselves.”

Madison Rasico who is in the chorus of “Emperor,” spoke about her involvement with the fairy tale.

“My favorite thing about this play is how interactive and easygoing it is,” Rasico said. “When the audience collaborates with the cast it creates an exciting synergy!

“Something I hope people can take away from this play is child-like joy. The cast does an amazing job at keeping the show lively. Audiences of all ages will find something to smile about.”