Teens write, perform musical

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

The Rust Belt Theater Company’s Studio for Young Actors will present its first original musical, “It’s My Turn to Talk,” at 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The show features dialogue and music written by local teenagers.

“In the past, we’ve done similar shows with the kids, using material that was already written for them,” said RBTC house manager Nicole Zayas. “What’s different about this show is that in addition to performing, these kids have written and designed the musical from the ground up ... It gives them a chance to write and sing about topics that are relevant to them as teens.”

The cast of “It’s My Turn to Talk” includes Davin Stilson, Miranda Canacci, Grace Offerdahl, Gabby Napoli, Nick Narkum, Donny Wolford, Hunter Thomas, Jack Kuczek, McCallen Warrick, Donnette Bishop, Jennifer Caventer and Rachel Clifford.

Tickets are $15 ($10 for students/seniors). Call 330-507-2358. The theater is in the Calvin Center, 755 Mahoning Ave.

“I didn’t have opportunities like this when I was a teenager,” said program creator and RBTC Executive Director Robert Dennick Joki. “I knew that if I had the chance I could write dialogue and music. I just didn’t know how to begin or where ...That’s why it is so important to me to offer opportunities to young people.”

The students gain experience free of charge as the program is funded by tickets, donors and fundraisers.