Organization: Chesapeake Children’s Theatre

What: Thoroughly Modern Millie Jr. Performance

When: Oct. 9, 10, at 7 p.m., Oct. 11 at 2 p.m.

Where: Elks Lodge, Easton, Md.

There have been several renditions of ‘Thoroughly Modern Millie‘ throughout the years, but according to the Chesapeake Children’s Theatre, you haven’t seen one quite like this. The Chesapeake Children’s Theatre in Easton, Md. will be hosting Thoroughly Modern Millie Jr. with their 6th-9th grade students.

The play will be a ‘high-spirited musical romp’ directed by Kimberly Stevens. Filled with fun flappers, big city lights and young performers, Chesapeake Children’s Theatre says it’s one you won’t want to miss. Stevens has directed this performance in the past; however, it is the first time the Chesapeake Children’s Theatre has performed it.

“I think it is going to be fabulous. A lot of singing and dancing. We have the flappers and what was new and exciting in the 20’s,” Stevens said.

The Chesapeake Children’s Theatre has been open since 2012 and has put on numerous performances since its start. The organization offers musical theatre programs, film and acting classes, private classes in voice and instruments, among many other perks. With 10 teachers on staff and two large studios, Stevens says the group will be ready for opening night on Oct. 9.

“We audition everyone for our performances and if they have more strength and experience, they are more likely to get the lead roles,” Stevens said. “We currently have 22 performers cast in the play; however, we do still have spots available.”

Although the play was considered modern for its time, Stevens says since this is a junior play, the version is geared towards this age level. Stevens adds, anything that isn’t appropriate will not be in the play.

Lead Roles Cast in Upcoming Play:

Millie Dillmount- Sammi Tibbitt

Jimmy Smith- Elliott Morotti

Dorothy Brown- Quinn Turner

Mrs. Meers- Phoebe Fisher

Thoroughly Modern Millie

Based on the 1967 film ‘Thoroughly Modern Millie,’ the play opened in London in 1956 telling a story of a small-town girl, Millie Dillmount, moving to a big city. Millie sets her sights on NYC where she plans to marry for money. The play was set in 1922 when women were just entering the workforce, putting a modern air on the play.

While in the city, Millie soon begins to take delight in the flapper lifestyle, but problems arise when she checks into a hotel owned by the leader of a white slavery ring in China.

The show opened on Broadway on April 18, 2002, and soon after won six 2002 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. 

Cheseapeake Children’s Theatre

The Chesapeake Children’s Theatre & Performing Arts Center was born due to Easton’s lack of a children’s theatre. Kimberly Stevens, Lori Underwood and Paula Snead were able to make this establishment possible and fill the void, offering year-round productions specifically for these children ages 4-18.