Star, Inc.’s Tarzan Swings Into Somerville at the Fair Theater
When you think about Tarzan, the wild boy raised by a tribe of apes, the first thing that probably comes to mind is his famous battle cry. A story of his life put to song and dance may not be what you think. The story of Tarzan was turned into a Broadway musical production in 2006 and now Tarzan the Stage Musical comes to life on the stage when Star, Inc. presents it at the Fair Theater in Somerville.
The production is directed by Jade Lindsey who, along with her family, has been extremely active in the Fayette County theatre community. Jade has been a part of the Star, Inc. theatre company for 11 years (since she was nine years old). She has appeared on the stage in 25 productions, and behind the scenes twice as a co-director and twice as a director. Two favorite theatrical experiences are when she performed in The Addams Family and directed Little Women the Musical. Of the two areas of theatre, she prefers directing the most.
“I definitely prefer directing! It is where I can let my creative side run free. I love getting to watch my vision come to life,” said Jade. “It is truly a beautiful experience and I look forward to many more.”
Tarzan the Stage Musical includes a cast of 17 people with four being from Hardeman County, Bills Burns (Porter), Jeremiah Miller (Terk), Susanna Neal (Ensemble), and R.J. Wetherbee (Tarzan). Audience members will be familiar with many in the cast of Tarzan the Stage Musical having seen them in other Star, Inc. productions. The story has so many elements that Jade loves in a show, which are the reasons she was attracted to the script.
“I just love the story of Tarzan! I can remember watching the movie as a kid and immediately falling in love with the music, the romance, and of course the humor! From trashin’ apes to newfound love, this show has something for everybody,” said Jade.
Through the production, audience members will experience the story of Tarzan in a different manner. Jade sees the story as one that goes beyond that of a boy raised by apes, and hopes audience members are able to see the story has more depth than imagined.
“I hope the audience is able to see the depth within the story of Tarzan. Most people grow up knowing the story and appreciate the “wild boy” being raised by apes, falling in love and embracing his human side,” said Jade. “I hope the audience looks beyond the surface and realizes the importance of family and the love of mothers, and other relationships that impact each of our lives.”
Jade hopes the take away for many is, “Your past doesn’t define your story.”
Tarzan the Stage Musical opens this week at the Fair Theater and will be presented Friday and Saturday, August 4 – 5, 11 – 12, 2023, at 7 p.m. and on Sunday, August 6 and 13, 2023, at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased online or at the door.
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