Intermission is over: Locals star in ‘Descendants’ at Rivertown Theaters

Published 12:00 am Saturday, March 20, 2021

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KENNER — River Parish families can see some familiar faces in musical comedy “Descendants,” wrapping up this weekend at Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts in Kenner after a 21-show run.

Due to the uncertainties surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, several roles were double cast. However, many of the performers committed to 21 shows, with two performances per day. One weekend included three shows in a single day to accommodate capacity guidelines while sharing live theater with as many people as possible.

The cast includes performers from St. Charles, St. John the Baptist and St. James parishes. Representing St. John are Luke Boucvalt (Prince Ben) and Gabrielle Treas (Evie).

Performers from St. Charles Parish include Adam Vedros (Jay), Jonathan Dahl (Carlos), Emerald Johnson (Jane), Matthew Rechen (Chad), Mary Clare Eastland (ensemble) and Kayla Ceaser (ensemble). Romell Johnson III (ensemble) represents St. James Parish.

Based on the popular Disney Channel original movie, “Descendants” is a musical comedy follows the children of the infamous Disney villains. All is well in the Kingdom of Auradon, where Disney heroes and royalty are living happily ever after. That’s until Ben, the teenage son of Belle and King Adam (formerly the Beast) offers redemption to the children of the evil villains. Mal, Evie, Jay and Carlos, children of Maleficent, the Evil Queen, Cruella De Vil and Jafar, are invited to attend Auradon Prep alongside their parents’ sworn enemies. Before them lies a choice: walk in their parents’ footsteps or side with the good guys.

The show is directed by Kelly Fouchi with Rivertown Theaters.

Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts has implemented COVID-19 procedures and policies to keep performers and audience members safe. HEPA filters have been installed throughout the theaters, and all AC units exceed minimum requirements for hourly return and intake. Spaces are thoroughly cleaned after every performance.

Audience size has been limited to adhere to all social distancing guidelines. Temperature checks are also administered upon arrival. Audience members are asked to take advantage of hand sanitizing stations and move directly to their assigned seat once doors open.

This is the final weekend to see “Descendants.” On Saturday, March 20, there will be a 2 p.m. Blue show and a 7 p.m. Purple show. On Sunday, March 21, there will be an 11 a.m. Blue show and a 2 p.m. Purple show.

The cast for each version of the show is as follows:

The Blue show stars Isabel Gisclair, Gabrielle Treas, Luke Boucvalt, Mariella Arroyo, Emmy Johnson and Jennifer Delatte.

The Purple show stars Savannah Fouchi, Kelly Laines, Cannon Jewell, Arianna D’Antonio, Casey Swanson and Elise Spurlock.

Families or friends who plan to sit together should have one person purchase tickets for the entire group. Tickets ordered separately will automatically be separated for social distancing.

Call 504-461-9475 or visit rivertowntheaters.com to purchase tickets.

Next up at Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts will be Nunsense, showing from April 8-18.