Arts Alive! is inviting audiences to kick off the new year by taking in the Hampden Meadows School production of “The Spongebob Musical: Youth Edition.”

Dena Davis, the co-founder of Arts Alive!, said audiences will enjoy the well-known cartoon characters as they come to life on the stage. 

“But this is more than just silly fun - the musical packs a punch!” Davis said. “The bold, original musical celebrates friendship, cooperation, and the power of unity and inclusion. The power of optimism really can save the world.” 

Davis said the plot revolves around the struggles and conflicts in Bikini Bottom after the town hears that a natural disaster is coming its way. 

“Through this plot line, the musical is able to portray what different people turn to in times of crisis,” Davis said. “As many of these themes mirror today’s society, the show also provides a voice of urgency for change.”

Davis said this musical was a hit on Broadway, with original songs written by musicians including Stephen Tyler, David Bowie and Cindy Lauper.  

“We are proud of how the kids have embraced really difficult new material, challenging numbers and for some, their very first time on stage!” Davis said. 

Hampden Meadow’s performances of “The Spongebob Musical: Youth Edition” will be held at Barrington High School on Jan. 5 at 7 p.m. and Jan. 6 at 1 p.m. Tickets are general admission and cost $10 for adults and $5 for students. Tickets will be available online at www.artsalivebarrington.org as well as at the door (cash only) before each performance.