Secret Theatre Opens THE MERMAIDS' TALE, 4/28

While the name L. Frank Baum is most immediately associated with his legendary workThe Wizard of Oz, the author is one of the most prolific writers to date.  Following the success of Oz, Baum would go on to write the charming underwater adventure The Sea Fairies, published in 1911. Though one of Baum’s more obscure titles, it came to the attention of playwright and director Jack Dyville and writing partner John Stutte, who were inspired to adapt the novel into a children’s musical. The Mermaids’ Tale, which opens the Children’s Repertory Series at Secret Theatre later this month, promises to be a magical, musical adventure for both children and adults. Dyville says “the play has morphed a lot since its premiere in 2011”, with the show becoming even more“interactive and child-friendly.”

Audiences will follow the journey of a classroom of students who decide to turn the adventures of the underwater characters into a musical when The Sea Fairies is assigned as homework. Suddenly finding new inspiration, the kids sing, dance, and explore their way through the text, creating an adventure of their own. Children will swim along with the fearless heroine Trot, salty Old Cap’n Bill (the children’s teacher), and the magical Queen Aquamarine. Dyville explains that, in addition to introducing children to a literary classic, the show “teaches children valuable lessons about bullying and accepting people for who they are.”  Truly, a classic that is still relevant today.

Kicking off Secret Theatre’s new Children’s Repertory Series, The Mermaids’ Tale runs April 28, May 12 and 19, with a final performance June 9. All shows are at 2 pm. Tickets are $10 for children, $15 for adults, and available in a family pack of four tickets for $40. Tickets are available by calling the box office at 718-392-0722, or online at www.secrettheatre.com and/or https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/cal/1681.