Saturday
May 11, 2024 
A buried secret and a community determined to keep it that way, when a catastrophic event twists, breaks and reshapes every facet of their lives, a mysterious stranger appears who seems to know them better than they know themselves.
This is the story of “Alien8,” an original musical that had its regional theater debut on the Bucks County Playhouse stage in 2022. The show was so well received among teens and adults, the Playhouse has decided to produce it again. Performances by the Playhouse Youth Company begin Thursday, July 27 through Sunday, July 30 and will be held each day at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Written by Kate Brennan and David Lee White, directed and choreographed by Kara Jönsson, with musical direction by Kyle Duke, and student assistant director Cassi Daley (Pennsbury High School), “Alien8” is a new contemporary musical written in the style of “Dear Evan Hansen,” “Be More Chill,” and “Heathers.”
It tells the story of a wounded town reckoning with its shame and finding connection through forgiveness. Featuring a contemporary score performed by the Youth Company Orchestra and a diverse cast of characters, “Alien8” challenges us to think deeply about who we really are, who we want to be, and how to reconcile differences between our present and future selves.
“Alien8” was developed with and written for teenagers, and speaks to intergenerational views of gender, identity, and inclusion within an anthem of belonging, love, and acceptance.
“We are excited to remount this beautiful show for our BCP audiences to enjoy and for our Youth Company to bring back to the Playhouse stage. ‘Alien8’ covers a variety of topics, and themes that are relevant and meaningful to anyone growing up during changing times and we love how the show David and Kate created resonates so deeply with people of all ages,” said Michaela Murphy, Playhouse director of education.
“We hope everyone will join us to discover for the first time, or to once again experience the sophistication, heart, and hope in this beautiful new musical about finding forgiveness and the strength to face an uncertain future.”
The Playhouse Youth Company production of “Alien8” features a cast consisting of 17 local performers ages 13-18 who are selected by audition for this conservatory-style training program. Youth Company participants this year represent 11 different high schools and middle schools in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
The cast includes: Mia Alicea (Benjamin Rush Arts Academy), Felix Arnstein (Central Bucks East), Helena Badiali (Central Bucks East), Jessica Daley (Pennsbury), Atticus Fiorito (Delaware Valley Regional), Sofia Garcia (Lawrence), Amanda Garvey (Central Bucks East), Isabelle Hoskins (Council Rock North), Liam Jackson (North Penn), Riley Malone (Central Bucks West), Athena Matthes (Pennsburry), Bella Matthews (Pennwood Middle) Maya Micsion (Council Rock North), Michael Murphy (Council Rock South), Liam Neill (Pennsbury), Bridget Parker (New Hope Solebury), Elli Anna Vallow (Solebury School).
Lighting designer is Paul Miller. Costume designer is Murphy. Mackenzie Seewagen is production stage manager.
Tickets start at $15 for children (18 and under) and $20 for adults plus fees. Patrons save 20% off when buying four or more tickets. Special rates for groups of 10 or more. Visit buckscountyplayhouse.org or call 215-862-2121.
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