"The Adventures of Tom Sawyer the Broadway Musical"
At MCCC's Kelsey Theatre March 12-21

West Windsor, N.J.

One of the most beloved characters of American literature comes to life in the exuberant musical, "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer," at Mercer County Community College's Kelsey Theatre. A pop rock Broadway version of Mark Twain's semi-autobiographical novel is presented by Maurer Productions OnStage Fridays, Mar. 12 and 19 at 7 p.m.; Saturdays, Mar. 13 and 20 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; and Sundays, Mar. 14 and 21 at 2 p.m. Kelsey Theatre is located on the college's West Windsor campus, 1200 Old Trenton Road. A reception with the cast and crew follows the opening night performance on March 12.

Audiences will warm to this lively tale set in 1840 in St. Petersburg, Missouri, a bustling town on the banks of the Mississippi River. Fourteen-year-old Tom is busy navigating the travails of teen life, as he goes head-to-head with his stern Aunt Polly, falls in love with the pretty, spirited Becky Thatcher, and embarks on a grand adventure with Becky and that irresistible rascal Huckleberry Finn. Along the way, Tom meets a terrifying scoundrel named Injun Joe, copes with his bratty half-brother Sid, and interacts with a host of colorful townspeople. Based on the book by Ken Ludwig, with music and lyrics by country songwriter Don Schlitz, this family show is filled with foot-stomping, toe-tapping songs that will introduce a whole new generation to Twain's memorable characters.

Starring in "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer the Broadway Musical" are: Ryan McCloskey as Tom, Albert Scerbo as Huckleberry Finn, Rosie Karlin as Aunt Polly, Stephen Szemis as Sidney Sawyer, Scott Karlin as Judge Josiah Thatcher, Rachel McCleary as Becky Thatcher, and Joe Zedeny as Injun Joe. Also appearing are Marc Flicker as Muff Potter, Ray Murphy as Reverend Joshua Sprague, Jack Petzko as Pap Finn/Sheriff, Carol Jean Feinstein as Widow Douglas, Brian Gildea as Lemuel Dobbins, John Russell as Gideon Temple, and Rob Gougher as Lanyard Bellamy/Doc Robinson. Featured in supporting roles are Dennis Connors, Matt Triplett, Zachary Ryan Levine, Kiernan Matts, Dominick Sannelli, Molly Barson, Victoria Scialfa, Alexandria Nudo, Stacy Maurer, Jeff Branin, Danielle Grosso, Brielle Fattori, Laurie, Samantha and Charlotte Gougher, Kathy Kutalek, Debbie Ryan and Simone Sannelli

The show's director is John Maurer. The musical director is Buzz Herman and the choreographer is Jane Coult.

Tickets are $16 for adults, $14 for seniors, and $12 for students and children. Free parking is available next to the theater. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling the Kelsey Box Office at 609-570-3333. Kelsey Theatre is wheelchair accessible. For a complete listing of adult and children's events for the season, visit the Kelsey website or call the box office for a brochure.

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