Fairy tales get a playful twist

Over the years The St. Albert Youth Musical Association has garnered a reputation for clever songs skilfully combined with bold theatricality.

Their presentations aren’t just straight-up choral singing. They are full-scale productions complete with dialogue, choreography and costumes.

It’s no easy matter guiding four youth choirs through the paces, but this year musical director Criselda Mierau adds an extra satirical element to Twisted Fairy Tales coming Friday to the Arden Theatre.

This warped mash-up of traditional fables range from Mary Had a Little Lamb and The Little Mermaid to Little Red Riding Hood and Snow White.

“I was searching for something unique and different. Fairytales came to mind. I pulled out some books and started reading, and the idea of twisting them came to mind. Each of the four choirs tells a different story,” Mierau says.

The St. Albert Mini Singers, age three to four, are tackling Mother Goose rhymes. Outfitted like Old King Cole and Mary’s lambs, they’ll be singing eight ditties.

“They’re adorable. All you have to do is look at a three-year-old. They don’t even have to open their mouths. But they do enjoy acting and they’re very enthusiastic.”

The Little Singers, kindergarten to Grade 2, have appropriated The Little Mermaid with such hummable tunes as Under the Sea and Part of Your World. Although Mierau didn’t mess too much with the basic story, the kids wanted the Prince to be attacked by pirates and fall into the sea. And there’s even a Charlie Brown kick line.

“It’s visually dazzling. The characters are dressed in fish costumes and the kids made undersea instruments. They’re very talented and they put it out there.”

The Grade 3 to 5 Children’s Singers have completely rewritten Beauty and the Beast. This 17-minute fable finds Little Red discovering the enchanted castle as the beast-like wolf prowls outside the castle.

“It appeals to this age group and they have embraced it. This group also has the most choreography, singing and dancing.”

Lastly the Grade 6 to 12 Youth Singers are introducing Hansel and Fretel, a fresh take on favourite old characters such as Hansel and Gretel, Cinderella, Snow White, the Pied Piper, three pigs and a few scattered dwarves.

“In this case we definitely showcase the acting talent. I didn’t realize this kind of acting talent was sitting before me and this was an opportunity to get it out there.”

“The creativity that went into this is something the community should witness. The passion that went into the show is truly inspirational to any organization.”