'Bye-Bye Birdie' play opens July 23

Christ the King's King Players will be presenting "Bye-Bye Birdie" featuring cast members ages 8-18 beginning July 23 at 7:30 p.m.

This production of "Bye-Bye Birdie" is directed by Mary Fry along with Assistant Director Robyn Dahlson, and there are 29 cast members in total.

After noticing a need for performing arts in Fallbrook during the COVID-19 pandemic, Fry was inspired to bring young members of the community together through the production of "Bye-Bye Birdie."

"Bye-Bye Birdie has been one of my favorite shows for a long time, and it's a great show for teenagers and adults too," said Fry. "We're here to have fun and learn how to work as a team, and this was vitally important especially after the pandemic."

Fry said that she believes that the arts are an extremely important aspect of life, and many skills are taught during the rehearsals and performances of a play.

"The kids learn so much more than they know," she said. "They learn teamwork, discipline, and they gain the ability to get in front of a group of people on stage. These are all important skills they will use throughout their lives."

Christ the King's "King's Players" is a ministry dedicated to promoting performing arts in Fallbrook, through secular and non-secular performances. The King's Players was established three years ago, and all are welcome to get involved in productions, not just members of Christ The King Lutheran Church.

"Many of our cast members aren't a part of the Christ the King church," said Fry. "We provide a comfortable, loving environment for all, and a positive representation of the community."

The show features students from Fallbrook High, the Fallbrook Homeschool Academy, Escondido, and more. This opportunity has allowed students from different schools and different towns to come together and work towards one common goal, producing an outstanding show for their loved ones and their communities to enjoy.

According to Assistant Director Robyn Dahlson, the cast members involved in "Bye-Bye Birdie" are unlike any others.

"This is my third time being involved in a production of 'Bye-Bye Birdie' and I couldn't be more impressed with the fresh take on the show the cast members provide," said Dahlson. "There's some extraordinary talent, and I hope this show reinvigorates a love for theater within the community."

The night time performances will take place at Christ the King Lutheran Church on July 23, 24, 30, 31 at 7:30 p.m. There will be two matinees, July 24 and 31 at 2 p.m. Tickets for "Bye-Bye Birdie" are $10 and they can be bought online at https://ctkfb.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/9004 or at the door, 1620 S. Stage Coach Lane, at Brooke Road.