Luther Center Stage Series to host four children’s program performances in 2008-09 season
May 27, 2008
Luther College Center Stage Series will host four school matinees in the 2008-09 season, including performances of “The Velveteen Rabbit,” “Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters” and “Junie B. Jones,” as well as a performance from the interactive acrobatic dance group Diavolo.
All performances will take place in the Center for Faith and Life Main Hall on the campus of Luther College.
Tickets for Diavolo are $2.50; all others $3.50. Reservations can be made through the Luther Box Office, (563) 387-1357, open Monday-Friday, 9-10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.-3 p.m. with extended hours Thursdays until 7 p.m. through June 10. Orders received after June 10 will be accepted, but will not be responded to until the Box Office reopens Aug. 13.
Schools can make reservations by calling the Luther Box Office or e-mailing <phillibr>.
Iowa schools wishing to attend are eligible to receive up to $200 through the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs “Big Yellow School Bus Grant.” Applications can be submitted starting July 1 for the 2008–09 school year. For more information and to apply, visit www.iowaartscouncil.org, and click on “Funding,” then “Grants for pre-K-12 schools,” then “Big Yellow School Bus Grants.”
Area schools have priority for school matinees. Community members are welcome as space is available.
Performed by Enchantment Theater Company, a musical version of the classic children’s book “The Velveteen Rabbit” by Margery Williams will be held Thursday, Oct. 23, 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. for children in grades Pre-K-4.
“The Velveteen Rabbit” is a classic story about a stuffed toy rabbit that becomes the beloved playmate of a little boy and learns the power of love and undergoes a remarkable transformation into a real-live rabbit. “The Velveteen Rabbit” includes extraordinary puppets and a Grammy-nominated score.
“Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters,” based on the book by John Steptoe, adapted for stage by Karen Abbott, comes to the Luther stage Tuesday, Jan. 27 at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. for grades 1-7.
This Cinderella tale from Zimbabwe is performed by Dallas Children’s Theatre. Mufaro’s daughters are invited to meet the king, who seeks one of the best maidens in the land to become his wife. As self-centered Manyara and kind Nyasha encounter hooting owls, enchanted trees and a hungry boy during their travels to meet the king, their inner spirits are revealed along with the timeless truth that beauty is more than skin deep. “Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters” features traditional chanting and African song.
Diavolo, a physical and interactive company comprised of dancers, gymnasts and actors, will perform for grades K-12 Tuesday, March 17 at 11:30 a.m.
This unique student matinee allows a variety of ages to experience these acrobatic dancers, who will teach the audience about trust, teamwork and creativity.
Diavolo combines astonishing dance with fearless acrobatics and demands complete trust on the part of all members.
“Junie B. Jones,” a funny, fast-paced musical about new friends, new glasses, sugar cookies, the annual kickball tournament and other first-grade challenges, will be Tuesday, April 14 at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. for grades K-5.
TheatreworksUSA brings Junie B. Jones to life as she traces her adventures by recording the story of her life in her “Top Secret Personal Beeswax Journal.” “Junie B. Jones,” based on four of Barbara Park’s best-selling books, presents the wacky wisdom that only kids can bring.