Valentina Rivers has always known who she is on and off the basketball court. But when a new coach arrives with a talented new player named Ember Taylor, everything she thought she could count on begins to change.

As friendships shift, loyalties are tested, and tensions rise throughout the season, Valentina finds herself struggling to hold on to the things that matter most. With pressure mounting in every direction, she must decide whether to fight for the future she wants or walk away from the game she loves.

Meanwhile, her siblings, Quinn and Izzy, are determined to help her find her way through the chaos, leading to unexpected discoveries about family, friendship, and what it truly means to be a leader.

Set against the excitement of a championship basketball season, Free Throw: The Musical is an uplifting story filled with heart, humor, and unforgettable songs about finding your voice when the odds are stacked against you.

Bear Productions is a Southern Illinois theatrical company run by kids that helps young performers find their way on and off the stage. As of 2026, Bear Productions has created 3 original musicals: Breaking Free The Musical (Sept. 2024), Harmony (Aug. 2025), and Free Throw (Jul. 2026).

The company was first created in April 2024 by friends Emmett Whiteford and Greenlee Zelasko who got inspired to write Breaking Free entirely based off a song writing contest with their friends. With lots of cast and rehearsal changes, Breaking Free finally took the stage in September at the Anna Arts Center, and it was a hit!

In 2025, the company introduced a new writer, Jace Burns. Jace and Emmett together wrote Harmony, a fun musical following a teenage girl who was struggling with going to summer camp. Directed by Emmett and Greenlee, Harmony was the first of Bear Productions' to be performed at the Herrin Civic Center. A huge upgrade in quality happened within this big year.

Coming back for a third show, Emmett and Greenlee have written another together, with Emmett directing on his own this time around. An even larger upgrade has happened this time, with accompaniment improved, as well as sets, props, and all other elements that go into making a performance its best.

Overall, Bear Productions has been through lots of struggles but has ultimately produced three original shows that have all left an impact on its audience. If YOU are interested in being a part of Bear Productions, let someone involved with the company know!