Junior Theatre stages ‘FAME’

San Diego Junior Theatre will present “FAME: the Musical,” an energetic look at life in New York City’s celebrated High School for the Performing Arts on 46th Street.

The show opens at the Casa del Prado Theatre in Balboa Park on July 30 and runs through Aug. 15. Performances are at 7 p.m. on Fridays, and at 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. There will be an ASL-interpreted performance on Aug. 14.

Also, in a longstanding Junior Theatre tradition, the seniors who are graduating from the program (many after a decade of involvement in SDJT classes and shows) will be honored at the 7 p.m. Aug. 6 performance.

The production is filled with music and dance to tell the story of a diverse group of students committed to becoming professional performers. It features an ensemble cast of 32 kids, and stars Stephanie Schmidt of El Cajon as “Carmen,” and Kiefer Shackelford of Ocean Beach as “Schloma.”

The production is directed and choreographed by Steve Anthony with Donny Gersonde. The lighting director is Junior Theatre alum Matt Novontny.

Tickets are $8-$14 at (619) 239-8355 or Juniortheatre.com. This production is recommended for ages 10 and older.