The Call to Adventure: Treasure Island on the Wabash
A Site-Specific Youth Theatre & Wilderness Intensive
Are you ready to trade the spotlight for the sunset?
Where: Civic Theatre and Tapawingo Park
When: July 27-September 6
Performances: September 4-6
Who: Ages 13-18
Teachers: Benji Braswell and Amy Krzton-Presson, Watershed Coordinator of Wabash River Enhancement
Tuition: $375 (Includes professional PFD safety gear, canoe rentals, cast shirt, and 50+ hours of elite training.)
This summer and fall, Civic and Wabash River Enhancement Corporation are joining forces for a theatrical expedition like no other. We aren’t just putting on a play; we are conquering the river. We are looking for a crew of 15 bold young performers to bring Ken Ludwig’s Treasure Island to life—not on a stage, but on the moving waters of the Wabash.
THE EXPERIENCE:
- Master the Water: Go beyond the script. Students will learn the fundamentals of canoeing and water safety on the Wabash, discovering the rhythm of the river before they ever step foot on stage.
- The Floating Stage: Rehearse and perform on a custom floating platform, learning to find your “sea legs” and adapt your acting to the living, breathing environment of the river.
- Cinematic Staging: Master the art of the canoe entrance. From sneaking onto the “Hispaniola” by boat to fleeing mutineers across the water, the river is your set.
- Nature Meets Magic: Perform for a live audience gathered on the beach at sunset. Learn to project your voice over the wind and use the natural landscape of Indiana to tell a story of gold, greed, and guts.
PRODUCTION TIMELINE:
July 27–31 | THE “LAUNCH” WEEK:
Monday, July 27: Parent orientation and auditions
Friday, July 31: The “Wabash Orientation” and initial Canoe Safety Training & Canoe lessons at Tapawingo Park!
AUGUST 3–21 | LAND & WATER REHEARSALS:
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM daily. * Moving from Civic Theatre to the riverbank at Tapawingo Park as students build their “sea legs.”
AUGUST 24–28 | THE EMBARKATION:
Full rehearsals on the floating platform and canoe integration.
AUGUST 31 – SEPT 3 | TECH & DRESS WEEK:
Final sunset rehearsals with full costumes and safety gear.
SEPTEMBER 4–6 | THE PERFORMANCES:
Opening Night: Friday, Sept 4. A Labor Day weekend spectacular for the Lafayette community! All performances begin at 6:30 and are free for the public! Audience seating is on the shore so they can enjoy a sunset view of the play on the water.
