A Place To Be, which marks its 15^th anniversary this year, produces musical theater as part of its unique approach to therapy. Its productions showcase the talents of its clients as members of the cast and help transform perceptions of people with disabilities, mental health challenges or neurodivergence. As show director Kyle Boardman explains, “For many of our cast members, this experience is part of their therapy, helping them develop self-expression, confidence and social connections in a creative and inclusive way.”

Best Friend features nine A Place To Be clients and four community volunteers who bring to life the family-friendly story of a boy who feels different and alone—until the day he adopts a shelter dog who has suffered abuse. With time, love and TLC, the boy and his dog become best friends and learn how to navigate life together.

“This musical is about giving someone a chance to heal and recognizing that friendship is the most important gift in this life,” says A Place To Be Co-Founder and Creative Director Tom Sweitzer, who wrote and composed the show. It’s something Sweitzer experienced personally after adopting his own beloved dog Hazel from a shelter.

“What makes Best Friend so special is its authenticity,” Sweitzer says. “These are real emotions, real stories and real connections being shared on stage.”

The 40-minute musical will have multiple showings on the first two weekends of April—with a special sensory-friendly showing on April 12. Tickets are $5 for children and $10 for adults.

Show times:

Friday, April 4 @ 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, April 5 @ 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Sunday, April 6 @ 2:00 p.m.

Friday, April 11 @ 7:00 p.m.

Saturday, April 12 @ 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Sunday, April 13 @ 2:00 p.m.

Venue:

A Place To Be’s Mars-Schmidt Theater

Village at Leesburg, between Victory Martial Arts and CMX Village 14 Cinemas

1600 Village Market Blvd. SE, Suite 108, Leesburg, VA 20175

Tickets:
Tickets can be purchased at https://aplacetobe.booktix.com/dept/main/e/Pup