MAT Youth Production showing 'The Velveteen Rabbit'

MAT Youth Production will be performing "The Velveteen Rabbit" for the next two weeks starting tonight.

The story of "The Velveteen Rabbit" follows a child who is given a gift of a stuffed rabbit at Christmas time. The story is told from the point of view of the toy. The rabbit is told that if it is loved enough, it will become real. When the child falls ill the toy is to be thrown away, but is given a new life, and a new view of reality.

"The Velveteen Rabbit" provides audiences of all ages with comedy, adventure and a final victory for the hero. The lesson learned is that love can make anything real. The 11 cast members vary in age from 10 to 17 years old.

"My favorite part is getting to shape young actors, because most of these kids have only been in one or two shows, or none at all," Director Maggie Daniels said. "I really enjoy being able to share my love of theater with them, and being able to teach them some of the basic things that are going to carry them throughout the rest of their acting career."

Vivian Nast stars as the Velveteen Rabbit. She is 15 years old and this is her sixth show.

"The whole play in general has been so crazy and fun," Vivian said, "The difference between reading a script and seeing it come to life is so big, and it's just so enjoyable."

With Vivian's growing experience, she has enjoyed observing new actors and their skills.

"These actors, while being so young and so new, are so talented, and so amazing at what they're doing," she said, "They've been embodying their characters, especially Kerrington (Kraske). She's been getting that energy."

Kerrington performs as the little girl who owns the Velveteen Rabbit. She is 13 years old and this is her second show. Kraske's experience with the cast members has been pleasant.

"It's kind of like another family," Karrington said, "It's nice to laugh together."

Youth Activities Director Angela Pratt helped put on the play, which is sponsored by Charlie's Heating and Air.

"My favorite scene is when the toys fight back against the scarlet fever," Pratt said.

The show starts at 7 p.m. and runs for an hour. Performances run tonight through Saturday and Thursday through Saturday next week, Aug. 3-5, all at the Little Theatre in Montana State University-Northern's Cowan Hall.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for students and seniors and $5 for children under the age of 5.

Sodas and ice cream bars will be available for purchase and the show has one 15-minute intermission.