Theatre Arts presents children’s theater musical, “The Arkansaw Bear”
Lees-McRae College Theatre Arts is opening their 2026–27 season at the end of this month with the children’s musical production, “The Arkansaw Bear.” Based on a late-19th century children’s book by Albert Bigelow Paine, the musical follows Tish, who, in a moment of sadness, wishes on a star and enters a fantasy world where she meets the world’s greatest dancing bear.
The musical explores timeless themes such as coping with sadness, and the meaning of life and death, while remaining fantastical and full of humor, song, and dance.
“When we select our productions, we always explore the whys: Why this play? What challenges can it present to our student actors and technicians? What will this story bring to our audience? We chose ‘The Arkansaw Bear’ in part because it is a beautiful script that tells the truth. The style of performance requires larger-than-life characterizations and unique acting challenges,” Director of Theatre Arts Joshua Yoder said. “At their best, the arts help us navigate life and make sense of the world around us. ‘The Arkansaw Bear’ does that while being funny, entertaining, and heartwarming to both children and adult audiences.”
“The Arkansaw Bear” opens in Hayes Auditorium on Thursday, Oct. 1 and will run through Sunday, Oct. 4 with both evening and matinee performances.
