Eastern Alumna Alexis Kurtz Performs in 'Earth Day, Every Day'

2017 Apr 3

A zany cast of characters performed by Eastern Connecticut State University alumni is amid an ambitious month-long tour for a children's theatre production called "Earth Day, Every Day." Brought to audiences by eesmarts, an Energize Connecticut initiative managed by Eversource and the United Illuminating Company, the play will tour Connecticut elementary schools from March 27-April 21.

"Earth Day, Every Day" was written by Eastern alumna Deborah Stauffer '16, who won the 2016 eesmarts Student Contest "Wright the World" college category. The play aims to teach children the importance of making smart and sustainable energy choices.

Among the alumni involved is Alexis Kurtz '16 of Andover, who majored in theatre. Kurtz plays Penelope Precycle.

"I remember how much I was influenced by shows that were brought to my elementary and middle schools," said Kurtz. "Hopefully this play helps a lot of kids to become aware of ways they can make a difference in the environment, and that even small contributions are helpful in reducing waste."

With numerous performances at elementary schools in 38 Connecticut towns, the messages of "Earth Day, Every Day" will reach approximately 10,000 students.

The play follows Roger Recycle, Penelope Precycle, Elmer Energy, Chadwick Composter and Scarlet Upcycle as they audition for a special Earth Day commercial broadcast. During their audition, they try to convince the director that they are the best solution for conserving energy and resources. By the end, the characters realize that each of them play important roles in conserving the planet, and that they need each other to make the world a better place.

Three public performances are scheduled: two on April 13 at the Energize Connecticut Center (122 Universal Drive North, North Haven) at 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. and one on April 14 at Stafford Palace Theatre (75 Main St., Stafford Springs) at 10 a.m.

Kurtz recently performed in "Babes in Hollywood: The Music of Garland and Rooney" at the Connecticut Cabaret Theatre this winter.