Local family all in for Tarzan

An entire Martinsville family finds their place in theatre with the Patrick Henry Community College Patriot Players in the upcoming show “Tarzan: The Musical.”

Tim and Tonya Bredamus, along with their daughters Audrey, 12, and Emma, 11, each have a special role to play in “Tarzan.” Tonya, helping with backstage tech, lighting and costumes, says the family loves to stick together.

“Whatever extracurricular activity our kids get into, we make sure we’re here for them–cheering them on as a family,” says Tonya. “Audrey and Emma have caught the theatre bug and were super excited when they found out they made it [in ‘Tarzan’]. So, naturally, we’re going to support them.”

Tim, a youth and children’s pastor at Christ’s Church in Martinsville, helps the cast as flight captain.

“My girls have always had an interest in theatre, and I’m happy to be part of something they’re so passionate about,” explains Tim. “The Patriot Players are like a family, and it’s very special for my family to be a part of this.”

Audrey and Emma have parts in the ensemble as both apes and flowers. Audrey said she finds a lot of community through participating in theatre.

“I love seeing the entire cast at the beginning not knowing any of the show, and at the end, knowing all of it,” she said. “Having all of my family here is great. I love acting with Emma and my mom and dad love doing behind the scenes stuff. It’s all worked out very well.”

According to Devin Pendleton, director of programs and artistic director of Patriot Players, participating in theater is a great way to make lifetime memories.

“This is something they can do together and really appreciate,” Pendleton said. “We’re happy the Bredamus family chose Patriot Players.”

In addition to spending her time in Walker Theatre, Audrey is also in the process of writing, producing and directing her own science fiction/fantasy film titled “Evarb.”

 “There are so many transferrable skills that Audrey can take away from the Patriot Players to incorporate into her future roles and producing “Evarb,” Pendleton said. “She’s learning how to take notes and direction, and she’s building her confidence. There also were several Patriot Players who came out to audition for her movie, so she’s already doing a great job of networking.” 

Catch the Bredamus family and the entire cast of “Tarzan: The Musical” from April 22-23 and April 28-30 at 7 p.m. and April 24 and May 1 at 2 p.m. in Walker Theatre at PHCC. All tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.

Tickets are available now at the PHCC Switchboard, located in West Hall on campus, at the Martinsville-Henry County Visitor Center located at 191 Fayette St. in Martinsville, VA, or by visiting http://www.phccpatriotplayers.com/tickets.