The Mid Michigan Family Theatre is proving dreaded childhood closet monsters aren’t as scary as they might seem.
In the upcoming play “Monster in the Closet,” which kicks off on Friday at the Alfreda Schmidt Southside Community Center in Lansing, director Bill Gordon said he’s looking to change the perception of the traditional childhood monster.
“(The play) kind of explains the idea of monsters in the closet and lets kids know that these monsters aren’t the fearful creatures that kids imagine them to be,” Gordon said. “In reality, as far as the play is concerned, these monsters in the closet are the protectors of children while they are asleep.”
The play features families and children mostly from the Ingham County area and runs until June 9, with multiple performances scheduled during the two-week duration of its run.
Gordon said the play is about a girl named Emily and her friend Stephanie who see a monster in the closet and devise a plan to capture it. Gordon said the monster, Murray, is harmless, only carrying the responsibility of watching over Emily while she is sleeping.
“The monster, instead of taking care of his responsibilities, likes to play computer games,” he said. “So that’s what he does while the rest of the family is asleep, and the young girl inadvertently spots him and that’s a big no-no as far as the dream creatures are concerned.”
Patti Vogel, a costume designer for the play, said the collaborative effort of the parents, children and board members is what helps make the play unique and enjoyable to be a part of.
“Kids of all ages are in the play production and also parents and adults are in it, which makes it very fun,” she said.
Her daughter, 14-year-old Natalie Vogel, plays the role of Stephanie and said she previously performed through the Lansing Parks and Recreation Department.
Natalie Vogel said she also enjoys participating in the play, but being a member of the cast hasn’t been effortless.
“It’s challenging putting everything together, executing all the different movements and scenes, knowing all your lines and helping everyone else,” Natalie Vogel said.
With the hard work the play entails, Gordon said he finds fulfillment in working with the cast and seeing everything come together, especially when it’s able to bring members of the community together.
“It’s a fun play… It’s got a great cast,” Gordon said. “The cast is having a good time and I think the audience is going to enjoy it as well.”
For more information or to find showtimes for “Monster in the Closet,” visit mmft.net.
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