Waukesha Civic Theatre makes history with production of Victor Hugo's The Hunchback of Notre Dame

The curtain goes up Friday night on a history making moment in community theatre.

The Waukesha Civic Theatre is the first community theatre in the nation to stage the Hunchback of Notre Dame.

Andrea Ehlinger who plays Esmerelda tells the CBS 58 News at 4 that it has been a childhood dream to play this character. 

"I've always loved Hunchback and Esmerelda," Ehlinger told CBs 58's Michele McCormack. "Although the Victor Hugo version is definitely different from the Disney movie."

In fact, the theatre warns that it is not for young children. That the adult themes are probably best for those over the age of 12.

The production involves a 14 piece orchestra and driven by music and the themes of acceptance.

I find it actually amazing how years later we're still learning the exact same lessons from this story. Acceptance and moving past certain biases.

"I think it's very applicable," says Ehlinger when asked about the significance of the messsage to modern times. "I think everyone could stand to hear the message Victor Hugo has to say."

The Hunchback of Notre Dame runs through November 12th.

The Waukesha Civic Theatre is located  264 Main Street, performing in the Margaret Brate Bryant Civic Theatre Building in Waukesha.

Call the box office at  (262) 5470708 for more information or click here.