Theater Spotlight of the Week: Stephanie Riggs

by Shawn Parikh

Flower Mound Performing Arts Theatre (FMPAT) is about to present a world premiere musical titled Project Youth this weekend. Who better to talk to than the Director of the show, who also happens to be the writer of the musical, who also happens to be a founder of FMPAT? Stephanie Riggs was perfect to feature this week.

Before we go any further, my audio recorder decided to stop a minute before the interview ended thus the abrupt interruption during the podcast. I have included the last question and her answer at the bottom.

We start off my talking about her career and how she came to Flower Mound and helped form this theater company. It has been around for 16 years so I ask what attributes to its success.

Project Youth is a unique musical since it is set in the future dealing with environmental issues and has a cast comprised of kids aged 5 - 18. I ask how the concept originated and what made her decide to make it a youth production. I also ask why she decided to write it as a musical rather than a play since it has a dark undertone about the environment.

The last question I ask (when my recorder failed) is what she wants the audience to walk away with. She replies that she wants kids to be able to see blue skies when they grow up and allow them to do their part as youth, wanting to make our world a better place to live.

The production runs from July 17-26 and tickets can be purchased online or by calling 972-724-2147.

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