Performers rehearse for the musical 'Wonderstruck'. New West Theatre returns with the musical comedy from August 9 to 26, 2023 at the Yates Memorial Theatre in Lethbridge. (Photo: LNN)

By Christian Oldale

New West Theatre beginning 2023-24 season with musical ‘Wonderstruck’

Aug 3, 2023 | 2:15 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – New West Theatre is set to kick off its 2023-24 season on August 9, 2023 with the musical comedy ‘Wonderstruck’ at the Yates Memorial Theatre.

The theatre company describes the show as having a mix of classic and contemporary rock ‘n’ roll hits to go along with sketch comedy.

New West Theatre Artistic Director Kelly Reay said the show is a welcome return to the wonderous feeling that went by the wayside during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Reay explained, “We spent so much time over the past few years over the pandemic focusing on immediate needs, and what we need immediately, that we did not have enough time to dream and wonder.”

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He added, “With this show, we’re really trying to focus on possibilities, not immediate need.”

‘Wonderstruck’ is family-friendly and suitable for all ages to enjoy. During its run at the theatre from August 9 to 26, performances will be held Tuesdays to Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. In addition, 1:00 p.m. performances will be held on Saturday, August 12, 19 and 26.

Scott Carpenter stars in the show, and has been performing with New West Theatre for over 30 years. Carpenter said that he is always happy to see the joy that comes out of people watching the performances.

He explained, “It’s amazing the stories people tell me, how much they love coming to the shows. They may be having a hard time in their life or whatever, and they can come here and just laugh and smile and enjoy themselves.”

Following the run of ‘Wonderstruck’ at the Yates Theatre, New West Theatre will be running three more shows until the season ends in February, 2024.

From October 5 to 14, the company will perform ‘Honour Beat’, a drama that explores Indigenous stories as two sisters face off over their mother’s deathbed.

In December, New West Theatre is running ‘Elf: The Musical’, based off the beloved Will Ferrell holiday film. ‘Elf: The Musical’ will be on at the Yates Theatre from December 14 to 31, with a break on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

In February 2024, the company will be running ‘Legends of Rock and Country’. The show pays tribute to the legends of the genres from the past several decades, and features music from Johnny Cash, Madonna, Dolly Parton and Fleetwood Mac, among others. The show is scheduled from February 15 to 25.

Tickets for ‘Wonderstruck’ or any other show are available for purchase at the New West Theatre website. Tickets can also be purchased in-person at either the Yates Theatre or ENMAX Centre, or by calling 403-329-SEAT (7328).

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

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