The South Arkansas Arts Center has announced Kristen Blossom as visiting director and choreographer for this summer’s production of “The Hunchback of Notre Dame.”
Blossom, who is currently the assistant professor of acting and directing at Louisiana Tech University, will be making her directing debut at SAAC’s Callaway Theatre. She said she is thrilled to have the opportunity to bring to the stage the classic tale of the power of light and love to defeat darkness and anger in the lives of Quasimodo and Esmeralda, set in the famed cathedral in 15th century Paris. This year’s summer musical is sponsored by Murphy USA and scheduled for July 18-28.
“It is so easy to let our beliefs about ourselves be shaped and warped by the people around us. It requires a tremendous amount of courage to redirect those thought patterns, step outside of the abuse and refuse to let other people’s opinions of us determine who we are,” Blossom said in a news release. “There is so much darkness in Quasimodo’s world and a lot of it exists in his own mind. Re-defining how you see yourself is no small feat. It takes all the inner-strength Quasimodo can muster to step into his personal power and allow himself to be immersed in light and experience love.”
The show will have creative opportunities for actors, singers, dancers and choir members of varying skill levels. “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” is based on the Victor Hugo novel and songs from the Disney animated feature. It includes the film’s Academy Award-nominated score, as well as new songs, with a storyline that embraces theatrical storytelling while including verbatim passages from Hugo’s gothic novel.
Blossom has extensive experience directing both children and adults at the community theater and collegiate levels. She holds an MFA in acting from the FSU/Asolo Conservatory, which has been rated one of the top 25 Drama Schools in the world. As member of the Actors Equity Association, she has extensive experience performing and directing on stages all over the country. She is a trained dancer and registered yoga teacher, allowing her to incorporate her teaching techniques into all elements of the production.
“Working with me means that together we will constantly be peeling back layers and finding a deeper meaning in every word, movement and moment. I lead with my heart and try to encourage other artists to do the same,” Blossom said in the release.
Auditions will begin June 1 with a call for choir members and June 2-3 for actors, singers and dancers. Anyone interested in taking part is encouraged to stop by SAAC starting at 4 p.m. May 18 to meet Blossom and other members of the creative team. Audition materials also will be available at that time.
For more information, call the SAAC at 870-862-5474 or visit tsaac-arts.org. SAAC is located at 110 E. Fifth St., El Dorado.