This Tony Award-winning musical has an uplifting message, bright and colorful characters, cool music by some famous artists, and is a family-friendly production that can be enjoyed by young children and Grandma and Grandpa, too. You’ll leave with a smile!

A cheerful winter break would be watching “The SpongeBob Musical.” Presented by local community theater, you can watch this fanciful stage production March 1, 2, or 3 in St. Joseph at the Missouri Theater.

 “This is definitely a family-friendly show,” says Lindsay Prawitz, Program Director of the Robidoux Resident Theatre,. “It’s a great way for an entire family, from young children to Grandma and Grandpa, to enjoy a musical together. It has an uplifting message: that everyone has a place, and everyone is important.”

About 50 community members have been working hard, making costumes, building sets, and rehearsing their roles. The musical, based on the popular SpongeBob SquarePants character, is known for its bright colors and catchy music, composed by well-known artists like Yolanda Adams, Steven Tyler, David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, and The Flaming Lips, as just a few samples.

“This production appeals to actors, too, because so many different people could participate. Some plays require certain specific types or styles of actors or body types, and this one can include a wider base,” Lindsay says.

Unlike some traditional productions, “SpongeBob The Musical” has presented the set builders and costume mistress some challenges. “Making the extra legs for an octopus character has been an interesting challenge. They love that they get to have fun with this, creating bright and whimsical pieces.”

The show’s storyline is simple but heartwarming: when the citizens of Bikini Bottom face a threat to their home, SpongeBob and his friends must band together to save the day. It’s a tale of friendship and optimism, perfect for lifting spirits.

Tickets cost either $17 to $37 for children, and $25 to $45 for adults, depending on seating at The Missouri Theater, and may be purchased online here. There will also be ticket fees.

Hey Robidoux Resident Theatre, “Your genius is showing” in selecting such a fun musical—as several characters in the television series might have said.

All photos by Blair Darnell, RRT Board Member

For hundreds more events, visit Missouri Life’s Event Calendar.