Manton Ave. Project presents 'BIGTOP! A Three-Ring Musical'

The Manton Avenue Project will host a circus themed benefit, BIGTOP! A Three-Ring Musical, on May 19th at the Pell Chafee Performance Center, Citizens Bank Theater, 87 Empire St. in Providence.

The Manton Avenue Project is a non-profit organization that unites children living in Providence's Olneyville neighborhood with local theater professionals to create original theater together. The organization's mission is to increase the self-esteem and unleash the creative voices of these inner-city children.

BIGTOP! A Three-Ring Musical consists of eight tiny circus themed plays, each with an even tinier song, written by children in the program, in conjunction with special guest writers Chris Van Allsburg, renowned children's book writer and illustrator, Donald W. King, executive artistic director for Providence Black Repertory Company, Michelle Muscatello, WPRI Meteorologist, Councilman Cliff Wood, Ward 2 (College Hill), City of Providence and performed by professional actors from Trinity Repertory Company, Providence Black Repertory Company, The Gamm, and 2nd Story Theatre.

The evening will begin with a 6:00 PM cocktail hour, followed by the show at 7:00 PM, and refreshments and a chance to talk to the kids at 7:45 PM. Tickets for the performance are $100 and must be purchased in advance, as seating is limited. For more information call (401) 331-7007 or visit www.mantonavenueproject.org.