Marblehead Little Theatre will host a one-of-a-kind evening featuring a brand-new original work by local singer/songwriter and youth educator, Molly Williams. This special performance is a launchpad for a nationwide vision and a fundraiser for the Center for Women & Girls, Inc., at the helm of this production.
Like a modern-day “The Wizard of Oz,” “Joy & The Shooting Stars” uses vibrant storytelling and infectious music to help young people quiet the voice of fear, find inner strength and persevere through challenges to follow their dreams. The musical celebrates the power of community, connection and kindness.
At the heart of the story is Joy, a young girl who loves to sing but struggles with low self-confidence. After a painful disappointment, Joy falls asleep in tears and finds herself in a magical dream — surrounded by colorful Little Stars in the night sky, each with a unique personality. Together, they attend Shooting Star School to learn how to become “Shooting Stars” under the nurturing guidance of Mother Sky and her trusted assistants: Father Tree, Wise Owl and the mischievous Gremlin. Through a series of playful and memorable lessons and songs, Joy and the Little Stars, along with the audience, learn real-life skills that strengthen courage, confidence and resilience.
With youth anxiety on the rise, “Joy & The Shooting Stars” meets an urgent need: giving kids fun, accessible tools for emotional well-being. This joyful evening is perfect for families, educators, arts supporters and anyone who believes in the power of story and song to ignite change.
“This performance is the first step in a much bigger vision,” said Williams, who is the founder and executive director of Center for Women & Girls, Inc. “We’re raising funds to mount a full production and ultimately bring ‘Joy & The Shooting Stars’ to schools and theaters across the country, paired with a curriculum that supports social-emotional learning for youth.”
The show is modeled after Williams’ flagship confidence building program for girls called The Shooting Stars.
The performance will be held at Marblehead Little Theatre, 12 School St., on July 2 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for kids 16 and under. Tickets can be purchased at mltlive.org, and proceeds support Center for Women & Girls, Inc.