2016-2017 Theatre for Families at Zach Theatre, Austin
ZACH Theatre is proud to announce the 2016-17 Theatre for Families season tailored to youth audiences with the goal of promoting creative learning, literacy, and theatre appreciation. The 2016-17 season show titles include classics like Charlotte’s Web and the sing-along Holiday Heroes, Elephant And Piggie: We Are In A Play!, and a brand new bi-lingual work in development for the Kennedy Center’s New Visions/ New Voices festival and workshop, JJ’s Arcade.
THEATER FOR FAMILIES:
CHARLOTTE’S WEB
October 14-December 3, 2016, Kleberg Stage
Based on the Story by E.B. White
Adapted by Joseph Robinette
Opening: Friday, October 14, 2016 at 6:30 p.m.
Saturday Public Shows: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Sunday Public Shows: at 2 p.m.
When Fern saves Wilbur, the smallest pig in the litter, Wilbur’s fate falls in the hand of a seemingly fragile web of Charlotte the spider. Charlotte weaves a path to freedom for Wilbur in this heartwarming tale of friendship and devotion featuring bluegrass music and aerial artists from partner Sky Candy.
Recommendation: Ages three and older
Run Time: Approximately one hour
HOLIDAY HEROES
December 17, 2016, Topfer Stage
Written by Shaun Wainwright Branigan and Jerome Schoolar
Saturday Public Show: December 17, 2016 at 11 a.m.
Now in its 17th year due to popular demand! In this hilariously fun holiday sing-along, students get into the holiday spirit with Ernie and Rufus. Celebrate the season with singing, laughter, and holiday cheer for all.
Recommendation: Ages three and older
Run Time: Approximately one hour
ELEPHANT AND PIGGIE: WE ARE IN A PLAY!
February 17- April 29, 2017 Kleberg Stage
Book lyrics by Mo Willems
Music by Deborah Wicks La Puma
Opening: Friday, February 17, 2017 at 6:30 p.m.
Saturday Public Shows: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Sunday Public Shows: at 2 p.m.
When Gerald and Piggie get together, anything is possible. They might wear silly hats, get invited to a fancy pool costume party, or learn a crazy new dance. Based on the wildly popular, beloved book series, this lively musical features Gerald and Piggie and the delightful back-up singers, the Squirrelles, who together discover the fun of being in a play and the joy of friendship. Bring your “bestus” friend and share the laughter.
Recommendation: Ages three and older
Run Time: Approximately one hour
JJ’S ARCADE
April 14-May 7, 2017, Mexican American Cultural Center
Written by José Casas
Opening: Friday, April 14, 2017 at 7 p.m.
Friday Public Shows at 7 p.m.
Saturday Public Shows: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Sunday Public Shows: at 2 p.m.
Mario is a hard working auto mechanic in east LA who is left to raise his son, JJ, after the passing of his mother. In order to honor her memory and cope with his lack of connection with his father, JJ begins to build an arcade out of leftover cardboard from his dad’s garage. It is through JJ’s imagination and ingenuity that he is able to connect to himself and his family. Inspired by the YouTube sensation, Caine’s Arcade, this bilingual play celebrates culture, imagination, perseverance, and family. jj’s arcade will be co-produced with Teatro Vivo and presented at the Mexican American Cultural Center.
Recommendation: Ages seven and older
Run Time: Approximately one hour
SUBSCRIPTIONS:
ZACH Theatre Family Series season ticket holders get the best seats at the best price all season long. For Family Series Subscription information call ZACH’s Box Office at 512-476-0541, x1, go to zachtheatre.org or visit ZACH’s Box Office located inside The Topfer Theater at 202 S. Lamar Blvd. Free and convenient parking available at the front entrance. Dates for Sensory Friendly performances have yet to be announced.
About ZACH Theatre
A non-profit organization, ZACH creates intimate theatre experiences that ignite the imagination, inspire the spirit, and engage the community. As Austin’s leading professional producing theatre, ZACH employs more than 300 actors, musicians, and designers annually to create its own diverse array of nationally recognized plays and musicals under the leadership of Producing Artistic Director Dave Steakley and Managing Director Elisbeth Challener. Each year, ZACH serves nearly 115,000 Central Texans – 55,000 of which are children and youth who participate in our education and outreach programs, as well as inspiring camps and classes. ZACH Theatre is honored to host private and community events across the beautiful rental-ready spaces on our three-stage campus located in the heart of Austin. Founded in 1932 and in its 83nd season, ZACH is the longest continuously running theatre company in the state of Texas, and one of the ten oldest in the country. Visit www.zachtheatre.org for more information.
ZACH Theatre’s 2016-17 Season is sponsored in part, by AT&T, Austin Catering, Baylor Scott & White Health, H-E-B, Holiday Inn-Lady Bird Lake, Kirk Tuck Photography, Marquee Event Group, OnRamp Access, and Schlotzsky’s; and by grants from The Shubert Foundation, the Junior League of Austin, The National Endowment for the Arts, Texas Commission on the Arts, and the Cultural Arts Division of The City of Austin Economic Development Department.
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