2013 New York Children's Theater Festival Begins 4/19

Three original productions will be showcased at the The New York Children's Theater Festival running Friday April 19 through Sunday May 5 at The Marjorie S. Deane Little Theater (10 West 64^th Street at Central Park West). Tickets are $18 ($15 YMCA members) are available at Ovationtix (866-811-4111) and www.newyorkchildrenstheaterfestival.org.

The Tale of Jamie Freel: a Faerie Story

Friday, April 19, 5:30 PM / Saturday, April 20, 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM / Sunday, April 21, 2:00 PM

This play with music and dance, written and created by Brad Raimondo is based on Jamie Freel and the Young Lady, a Donegal Tale by Miss Letitia Maclintock. It tells the story of a young man's search for adventure who uncovers a world of strange events, wild creatures, and faerie magic, as well as a kidnapped young lady in need of his help. For ages 8 and up.

Cheater, Cheater, Pumpkin Eater!

Friday, April 26, 5:30 PM / Saturday, April 27, 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM / Sunday, April 28, 2:00 PM

A puppet musical written and created by Staci Rosen and Ryan Roe about honesty, friendship and believing in yourself. Maddie has to decide whether or not to cheat in order to become a star. As the story unfolds with great humor, Maddie and the audience learn the importance of integrity and being true to oneself. For ages 4 to 8.

Molly Bloom Lately

Friday, May 3, 5:30 PM / Saturday, May 4, 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM / Sunday, May 5, 2:00 PM

This educational and entertaining musical, with book and lyrics by Ashleigh Catsos and music by Brian Ray Stearns, tells the story of a third grader who, after being teased for being small, must learn to not only stand up for, but also believe in herself. The story encourages a celebration of individuality and to always be kind even when others are not. For ages 5 to 10.

The New York Children's Theater Festival

A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in its second year, the Festival provides a birthplace in NYC for new live children's entertainment from around the globe, and serves as a platform for writers and producers who are passionate about developing innovative theatrical experiences for children. The inaugural Festival in 2012 reached over 1,000 audience members and has already seen results for its participants: Go Green! received Honorable Mention in the Jackie White Memorial National Children's Playwriting Contest (Columbia Entertainment Company, Columbia, MO), and Scheme of the Super Bullies is in the planning stages of launching a local tour through The Sarah Lawrence College Theatre Outreach Program. More at www.newyorkchildrenstheaterfestival.org.