VPA gearing up for Season 47

WASILLA — Valley Performing Arts members are ready for a busy season featuring an extra production. VPA Executive Director Garry Forrester said there’s a lot to look forward to.

“We’re glad to have another season. Come enjoy the fun at VPA,” Forrester said.

VPA is purring on six shows instead of the usual five this season. Forrester said they’re taking this opportunity to hold two musicals instead of one, “Peter Pan” and “Babes in Toyland.” He said they’re looking forward to returning to the Glenn Massay Theater for “Peter Pan” where the titular star and other cast members will take flights utilizing the facility’s wire system.

“We’re excited,” Forrester said.

Forrester said that Season 47’s lineup features a nice blend of genres that can be enjoyed by all ages and demographics.

“There will be something different for everybody to enjoy,” Forrester said.

“Dearly Departed” kicks off the season and premieres Friday, Sept. 16.

“We just thought it was a good idea to start with levity,”

Forrester said they have a lot of positive momentum going, and this is a great time to become a member. He said they have a lot of talented cast and crew members and a board that’s dedicated to putting on the best shows possible and supporting everyone involved.

“It’s a real good opportunity for people in the Valley to volunteer both on the stage and behind the scenes,” Forrester said.

According to Forrester, the 2022 youth theater program went really well this summer. He said they were able to return to a full schedule and saw a lot of passion and interest from the community, helping ensure the future of the community theater as a whole.

“It’s a good way to build a foundation,” Forrester said.

VPA is already in the early planning stages of Season 48. Forrester said to expect more high-quality productions that can be enjoyed by the whole community. He said the pandemic has taught them to truly appreciate why VPA exists in the first place.

“You’ve got to be progressive and keep an eye on what’s going on,” Foster said. “I think the overarching thing for us is to help people feel better when they leave than when they came in… to be a community asset.”

For more information about VPA, visit valleyperformingarts.org.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com