Live theater is back and Comox Valley Schools is delighted to announce that The SpongeBob Musical, a joyful and uplifting show, will be open to the public March 8-12 at Highland Secondary at 7 p.m. each evening.

Lisa Williams, Highlands Musical Director and Theater Teacher, says, “New York Magazine described this show as ‘effervescent candy for the mind’ and I wholeheartedly agree. This is exactly what we need right now. SpongeBob lifts us up, inspires us, and reminds us that we are stronger together!”

SpongeBob the Musical takes place in the underwater city of Bikini Bottom, inhabited by a carefree yellow sea sponge named SpongeBob SquarePants and an eclectic mix of ocean neighbors. SpongeBob’s easygoing lifestyle is cut short when it is discovered that Mount Humongous, a nearby volcano, will erupt in the next 48 hours and destroy Bikini Bottom. SpongeBob, trying to prove to himself and the world that he’s not “just a simple sponge”, decides to save the day when everyone has given up hope.

The show is based on the animated TV show SpongeBob SquarePants, but, as musicals do, it transcends the quality and themes of the original inspiration. The music has been written by greats like David Bowie, Cindy Lauper, Steven Tyler, Sara Barielles and many more. Every scene and every song is energizing, captivating and just plain fun.

The musical’s cast and crew hail from SD 71 high schools. When they first started auditioning, they weren’t sure if the musical would ever go live. Despite the uncertainty, they persevered and enjoyed the creative process together. Williams noted of the pandemic achievement, “We haven’t even seen anybody’s faces since August.” During the performance, many students will wear see-through masks, but throughout the rehearsal process, students wore the masks they wear at school.

Olivia Parsons, who plays Sandy Cheeks the Squirrel, said: “We’ve all had a tough few years due to the pandemic, and this show is full of what so many of us are missing – life, love and laughter. Working on this project has been the highlight of my year, and if viewers can experience a fraction of that joy, it’s well worth the cost of a ticket.

Stella Swanson, the singer-songwriter known for her hit children’s albums, plays the lead role of SpongeBob SquarePants and can’t wait for everyone to see the show, saying, “Nobody got to see a comedy musical in person for a few years, so it’s going to be even more exciting!

Williams and his cast and crew hope the Comox Valley will come together to support the theater and all of the young people who have each donated hundreds of hours. Williams said, “Wow. Just wow! Working on this show this year has been a joy and a privilege. I hope the audience will join us and feel the love.

There are two ways to watch the show – in person, masked and at 50% capacity – or get a virtual ticket and watch from the comfort of your own home. Each night will be streamed. All tickets are available online at https://events.sd71.bc.ca/spongebobmusical/. Single tickets are $20 and a family “Bubble Bundle” is available for $50.

Live TheaterSchool District 71