Club Chronicles: Arts Council prepares for ‘Roxy’s Legend of Toyland’

The Franklin County Arts Council and Board are getting the Historic Roxy Theatre ready for “The Roxy’s Legend of Toyland.” The musical production will be staged Nov. 28 through Dec. 2.

This is the second year of “The Roxy’s Legend of Toyland.” Following its successful revue last year, the Arts Council and Lanny McAlister agreed to work together again and produce another Toyland musical.

Two new segments have been added, which feature music from Beauty and the Beast and the Lion King. A cast of 60 will be performing more than 125 characters to 14 musical numbers. Many new costumes have been purchased for the production, and the stage has been extended to accommodate the many characters and new lighting installed for more dramatic effects. The theatre will be adorned with beautiful Christmas decorations.

The tickets are $10, and they are going fast. They may be purchased online at EventBrite.com; at Russellville Florist and Gifts; at the Roxy Nov. 11, 18 and 25 from 1-3 p.m.; and prior to the musical’s premier, if they are available. Toyland T-shirts, children and adult sizes, are also on sale at the Roxy. The colors are red, green and purple. All long sleeves are $20; short sleeves are $15; and 2X and 3X are $18.

Practice has been an ongoing process since auditions in September. Lanny McAlister is the writer and director of the musical, with Susan Crittenden and Melissa Godsey as choreographers. Hillary Malone Hall, assistant director, has coordinated the costume selections, sponsorships and finances. Jonathan Grimes is the production stage manager, and Chase Sparks serves as decorations designer.

Derek Sweeney, of Hackleburg, has performed for four years in Toyland in various roles. He said he looks forward to his fifth production, and the cast is a talented one! Everyone is invited to come and enjoy the show as the toys come to life.

Club Chronicles is written by Susie Malone.