Hatterland bringing ‘Puss in Boots’ to the stage next week

By Chris Brown on January 17, 2020.

Lilas Litousky dug deep into the past to come up with Hatterland Children’s Theatre’s next show.

From Jan. 23-25 the group will present “Puss In Boots.” The classic tale has roots about 500 years old, and Hatterland, celebrating its 55th year, has its roots firmly entangled with “Puss in Boots.”

“‘Puss in Boots’ was one of Hatterland’s first plays so I thought what better way to acknowledge its history than to do one of its first plays,” said president and director Litousky.

There are many different variations of the tale and the quick version is that the story follows a far-from-ordinary cat who sets out to help his master get his fortune. The one Litousky chose stays true to the fairy tale roots, complete with an ogre, talking dog and, of course, a talking cat.

Rehearsing since September, each of the 16 cast members, who range from seven to 16 years old, have gone to great lengths to develop their characters.

“It doesn’t matter the size of the role, they’ve really worked hard to give their character a voice and a personality and we really get to see that come out,” Litousky said.

The group is back at the Medicine Hat High School theatre for the second straight year. Litousky said she’s grateful to be there the space matches perfectly with what has long been one of Hatterland’s strengths – audience interaction.

“The audience is right there at stage level so for this type of involved theatre that includes our audience it’s really nice,” adding “You ever know when an ogre might need a few more captives.”

Litousky says Hatterland has worked hard to keep its prices low ($12 in advance, $15 at the door) so it’s affordable for everyone, and that everyone can enjoy it.

“Children’s theatre doesn’t mean that they’re any less professional than adults. In a way I almost prefer directing children because they have this amazing energy that just needs to be guided,” she said. “I find the older I get as an actor I lose that and have to work harder to get my level back up for stage. Kids naturally have it, and I just guide it so it becomes its best self on stage.”

Shows go each night at 7 p.m. and there is a Saturday show at 2 p.m.

Tickets are available at tixx.ca, by calling 403-502-8777 or in person at the Esplanade box office or the Medicine Hat Mall customer service desk.