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Islanders are next month being invited on a trip to Bikini Bottom, as some of the island's brightest young performers bring SpongeBob the Musical to the local stage... So, what can the audience expect?
To find out, Express caught up with Jersey Young Performing Arts (JYPA) Treasurer and Producer Tina Cook...
Why did the JYPA choose to do SpongeBob the Musical?
Following our production of Frozen last year and Cinderella earlier this year, we were looking for something a bit different for our next production.
Our members are from age 9 to 21. so finding a show that satisfies everyone can be challenging, but there was a lot of enthusiasm when we suggested SpongeBob because of the popularity of the TV show.
How will the actors get into their roles for characters like SpongeBob, Patrick and Squidward?
We have been rehearsing since May and obviously the TV characters had a big impact, however as time has gone on, the actors have added their own personal spin to the character, but they are still very recognisable.
How have the JYPA planned out costumes to capture the spirit of SpongeBob and his friends?
Lots of bright colours have been the key for the costumes.
The musical is upbeat and fun, with some really great songs so the costumes needed to reflect that vibrant feeling of Bikini Bottom, while at the same time connecting with the well known and much loved characters.
How will the JYPA been able to design the stage which will be used in the musical?
Bikini Bottom has bee created from the imagination of our director Mark Cook who has taken inspiration from the Broadway stage show.
Pictured: 'SpongeBob' getting into role.
The audience will be transported to SpongeBob's pineapple home, Mr Krabbs Crusty Krabb and Plankton's Chum Bucket.
Bikini Bottom is awash with brightly coloured coral and exotic fish.
Can you share some more details on the Relaxed Performance on October 31?
A 'relaxed performance' is a show that's been adapted to suit people who might require a more relaxed environment when going to the theatre.
Usually, these are children, young people or adults with learning difficulties, autism, sensory communication or other additional needs.
Some people can find standard theatre performances overwhelming or unpleasant.
Common triggers are darkness, loud music, sudden noises and generally unfamiliar environment in which you're expected to sit still and quiet for a long time.
How is it tailored to create an inclusive environment?
We will adapt the performance so that any loud noises will be quieter, we provide ear defenders and a quiet room where audience members can go if they are feeling overwhelmed.
Pictured: The young performers getting into their roles at rehearsal.
We share photos and a description of the theatre beforehand so audience members know what to expect and we set ticket price lower so that if the audience member feels they cannot stay or they need to take breaks during the performance, it doesn't have a financial burden.
The show promises to be a "pearl-fect underwater adventure". What are some of the standout musical numbers or moments that audiences should look out for?
SpongeBob is a story of good versus evil and the power of friendship and there are some musical numbers that reflect this.
Keep an eye out for SpongeBob and Patrick's duet and Plankton's rap!
What has been the most fun part about bringing the World of Bikini Bottom to life on stage?
Getting to know the characters. The TV series is a fun thing to watch but is two dimensional.
Getting to know and love the characters of Bikini Bottom has been great fun. Learning and singing some great songs has also been a blast.
What is the JYPA looking most forward to about performing/hosting the musical about a much-loved iconic TV Series?
Our purpose is to make the theatre experience inclusive and fun for everyone, whether you are performing, backstage or part of the audience.
We are looking forward to each of our eight shows being an awful lot of fun and taking the audience along for a ride.
The performances will run from 29 October to 2 November at Haute Vallée.
Tickets and more information can be found HERE.
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