San Diego California, June 28, 2010. American Rose Theatre (ART), a San Diego non-profit performing arts organization, announces their production of “13”, a new musical from Tony award winning composer, Jason Robert Brown (Parade, The First Five Years, Urban Cowboy), with 10 performances July 16-25, 2010 at Westview High School Theatre in Rancho Penasquitos. “13” features an all-teen double cast, and an all-teen band including guitarist Chris Raymond, who performed in the original Los Angeles and Broadway productions.

13 is a hilarious, high-energy musical for all ages about discovering that cool is where you find it, and sometimes where you least expect it. The story is filled with young romance and smart dialogue, plus a great message about being true to yourself. If you like Glee or Grease, you’ll love 13. With an unforgettable rock score from Tony Award-winning composer Jason Robert Brown, and based on the novel by Dan Elish and Robert Horn, 13 provides an nostalgic and honest look look at the ups and downs of growing up.

A highlight of the production has been the behind the scenes action. Jason Robert Brown will conduct an actor workshop on July 9, working with cast on musical numbers and providing insight into the show. Actor Allie Trimm (Broadway’s 13 and Bye Bye, Birdie), a San Diego native, who created the role of Patrice in the original Broadway production, has worked with many in the cast and has graciously given her time to the cast during rehearsal visits.

ART’s production is directed by Ira Spector, with musical direction and choreography by Kyrsten Hafso. Both artists are alum of the MFA program in Musical Theater at SDSU, and have extensive experience with professional and youth theater. Ira most recently directed Moscow for Diversionary Theatre, Into the Woods at SDSU, and worked as Intern Director for the premiere of The First Wives Club at the Old Globe. Kyrsten’s work includes choreography for I Love You Because at North Coast Rep, and a staged reading of the new musical, Rebel, at the Old Globe.

“We have kids in this cast who have worked all over San Diego, in New York and elsewhere,” said Spector. “I am thrilled to get the chance to work with them at such a young point in their careers and cannot wait to see all of their aspirations become a reality in the years to come!” “Add to that mix,” Spector continued, “an incredible local on-stage all-teen band, fantastic high-energy choreography and music direction from my colleague Kyrsten Hafso, and a catchy and touching score from Tony Award-winning composer Jason Robert Brown, and you have a very special night at the theatre.”

Elizabeth Morse as Patrice, red cast

Mary Grace Sumner as Patrice, white cast

Julia Vanderwiel as Lucy, red cast

Michelle Molbegott as Lucy, white cast

Evelyn Sparks as Kendra, red cast

Alexa Querin as Kendra, white cast

Gabrielle Zepeda as Cassie, red cast

Sarah Pence as Cassie, white cast

Brandon Romero Axtell as Brett, red cast

Slav Sokolov as Brett, white cast

Kathleen Garcia as Molly, white cast

Kayla Schaffroth as Molly, red cast

Ben Sutton as Malcolm, white cast

Alyson Tharpe as Charlotte, red cast

Meagan Pitcher as Charlotte, white cast

Mason Mercer as Richie, red cast

Mitchell Connelly as Richie, white cast

Connor Boyd as Simon, red cast

Julian Coker as Simon, white cast

Tickets for “13” are $16 for General Admission, $20 for reserved seating, $14 for students, seniors and active military and their families. Group discounts are available. Tickets are available by visiting the online box office at www.americanrosetheatre.com or at the box office at Westview High School on show dates.

American Rose Theatre is a non-equity 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to create and produce performing arts that serve and educate the community. Our youth arm works to develop talent in children and young adults who plan on pursuing the performing arts in college and beyond. For more information, visit www.americanrosetheatre.com.