Broke Thespians to perform ‘The Fantasticks’ opening May 31

Opening May 31, Broke Thespians Theatre Company will perform the off-Broadway smash-hit, “The Fantasticks,” written by Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt. Part commedia dell’arte, part classic musical, “The Fantasticks” is visually stunning and perfect for the whole family. Watch as two soulmates attempt to persevere despite meddling fathers, blistering heat and wicked bandits that interfere with their love. Catch the show at the VFW (1701 Hunter Road) at 7:30 p.m. May 31, June 2, June 7 and June 9, with 2 p.m. matinees on June 2 and 9.

“The Fantasticks” is a coming-of-age story that is as dramatic as it is mystical. Things that look dreamy in moonlight can lose their shimmer in direct sunlight, plaguing the boy and girl next door, Matt and Luisa. Their fathers, Hucklebee and Bellomy, are best friends who just want their children to fall in love. They all have the same lesson to learn: pain and loss are food for love and growth. The show’s director, Andrew Keeler, tells this classic story in a brandnew way.

“I was really lucky to study commedia dell’arte in Italy a decade ago. I’ve wanted to do this show with the traditional Italian comedy archetypes and their masks ever since,” Keeler said. Written and based in Texas, Keeler and his performers are, “...bringing [their] own Texan twist to each of the original commedia archetypes.”

With this in mind, Texas is represented in every scene with Keeler’s unique take on “The Fantasticks.” Bluebonnets deck the stage, cacti sit at concessions and the infamous bandit, El Gallo, is depicted with a rodeo clown flair. This version of the show presents the San Marcos community with an opportunity to experience a classical art form, keeping it approachable and fun for all ages.

The play “presents scenarios and people that are recognizable. Bosses, employees, parents, and children to name a few,” Keeler said. The production is licensed by Music Theater International, but it is a production of “The Fantasticks” unlike any you have seen before.

Broke Thespian’s Theatre Company is a nonprofit organization founded in 2019 dedicated to enriching the San Marcos community with performance and visual arts. The company produces four shows each year with open auditions, accepting performers and technicians of all experience levels. Upcoming shows include San Marcos’ third annual free musical in the park, “The Spongebob Squarepants Musical.” Learn more and get involved on the BTTC website, Facebook or Instagram.