OLRC Apprentices Perform Sci-fi Spoof 'Episode 26' at Utah State University

Episode 26 follows the space hero Buzz Gatecrasher in his 26th episode of Buzz Gatecrasher and the Cosmic Riddle July 25 and 26 in the Morgan Theatre on Utah State University’s campus.

The production is the capstone project for the talented students who participate in the Old Lyric Repertory Company’s High School Apprentice Program. Entry in the program is by audition and recommendations from the students’ high school teachers.

The Old Lyric Repertory Company Apprentice program partners with Utah State University and includes high school juniors and seniors. The apprentices have an opportunity to experience educational and professional theater and attend theater classes, work backstage and onstage in supporting roles during the OLRC season. They are involved with costumes, sound and design as well.

The OLRC Intern and Apprentice Program is sponsored by a grant from the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation.

“Episode 26 will take you on a fun space adventure,” said Richie Call, the apprentice coordinator. “It’s Buck Rogers meets Flash Gordon.”

Buzz Gatecrasher, Hillen Dale the aqua ballerina and Doctor Arthur Deco the scientific wizard, battle against the evil Lord Vaknor, who is the Emperor of the Universe.

“The best part of this show is that it’s family-friendly and hilariously obscure,” said Lauren Sidwell, who portrays the high priestess Garga. “It’s something you’ve never seen before.”

Episode 26 is a mix of comic book, old fashion radio show and sci-fi space movie rolled into one and performed on stage.

“The audience will be able to see another side of Lyric,” said Katie Francis, an apprentice playing the part of Dave the Robot. “Most of the apprentices are from Cache Valley so it’s a good opportunity to support the community.”

This is Call’s second year working with the apprentice program.

“Not only is the play itself great, but the apprentices are fantastic,” he said. “The thing I love most about the apprentices is their energy. They are always willing to try new things and have amazing enthusiasm.”

Episode 26 will be performed at 2 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. July 25 (yes the young people have that kind of energy) and at 2 p.m. July 26.

Tickets are $5 for general admission. Tickets are available online at the Caine College of the Arts website, by phone at 435-797-8022 and in person at the Caine College of the Arts Box Office in room 139-B of the Chase Fine Arts Center.

Related links:

• Old Lyric Repertory Company  
• USU Theatre Arts Department
• Caine College of the Arts Box Office
• Caine College of the Arts

Writer: Rachelle Nielson, Caine College of the Arts Production Services, 435-797-9203, rachelle.nielson@usu.edu

Contact: Richie Call, OLRC Apprentice Program director, 435-797-9248, richie.call@usu.edu