Children’s theatre returns to Polson schools with “Heidi”

The Port Polson Players returned to Polson schools recently to prepare 70 local kids, grades K-8, for this weekend’s production of “Heidi.” Their original musical adaption of the classic folk tale will be performed at 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 18 and 19, on the Polson High School stage.

According to Neal and Karen Lewing, directors and producers of “Heidi,” their children’s theatre program was put on hold for three years because of COVID.

“We’re happy to be back with this opportunity for Polson kids,” says Karen, who wrote the script and songs.

The production marks the company’s 37th year of working with the Polson School District, and exemplifies their Peers Performing for Peers program, whereby high school students perform the older roles and the rest of the cast is rounded out with actors in grades K-8.

“Believe it or not, we’ve had kids of kids perform in these productions,” Karen says. She notes that several of the PHS students acting in “Heidi” have been performing with the Players since they were 5.

This year’s high school thespians are Kai McDonald, Ellie Dupuis, Bethany Butler and Kyle Alexander, who each have performed in many Players’ children’s theatre productions. Also helping out are Desiree Alexander, along with Ronan’s Cathy Gillhouse, who provides musical accompaniment for the show.

Together, the Lewings have written seven musicals for kids, which they rotate annually.

A PHS custodian recently paid tribute to the Players’ long history in the schools, interrupting a rehearsal last week to tell the young actors that he had performed in “Heidi,” and enjoyed hearing the familiar songs again. “You’re doing a great job,” he said.

Tickets are $6 for adults, $5 for senior citizens and students, with a family ticket (two adults and two kids) for $20. No reservations for the two public shows are necessary; however, family and friends are advised to come at 3:30 p.m. when the box office opens, to save seats.