THE SECRET GARDEN et al. Set for Children's Theatre of Charlotte's 2012-2013 Season

One of the national leaders in theatre for young audiences, the Children's Theatre – located uptown at ImaginOn – has announced a season full of colorful characters, Broadway-style productions featuring professional actors, a diverse lineup of "spotlight" guest performers and lots of ways for families to save on tickets.

From the familiar hijinks of Charlie Brown and friends in "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown," to the classic characters of Pinocchio and the Three Little Pigs, to a Broadway-style production of "The Secret Garden," there's something for the whole family.

The season includes:

"Psshh" (Aug. 14-23): "Theatre for the very young" returns to the CTC stage with this brand-new production, a simple story of a boat, a cloud, the sun and water.

"You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown" (Oct. 5-28): The Peanuts gang's all here – Snoopy, Charlie Brown, Linus, Lucy, Schroeder and Sally – in this colorful musical!

"The Fisherman and His Wife" (Oct. 20-21): Designed especially for preschoolers, this delightful new dramatic adaptation taps into the magic of audience participation.

"The Commedia Pinocchio" (Nov. 2-18): The little puppet who wishes he were a real boy comes to life in a slapstick spin on the classic story.

"The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" (Nov. 30-Dec. 23): The Herdman kids return in this hilarious holiday classic. Mayhem and fun meet the Christmas story head-on in this treat for kids young and old.

"The Littlest Angel" (Dec. 14-30): Back by popular demand, this family favorite returns to warm our hearts during the holiday season.

"The Secret Garden" (Jan. 18-Feb. 10): Celebrate magic on a Broadway scale at "The Secret Garden," a timeless musical tale of hope and inspiration.

Justin Roberts and the Not Ready for Naptime Players (Jan. 19-20): Dubbed the "Paul McCartney of kids' music" by USA Today, Justin Roberts is truly one of the all-stars of the indie family music scene.

"Brother Rabbit Spinning Free" (Jan. 25-Feb. 3): Don't miss the world premiere of this multicultural production – inspired by the people who have made the Carolinas their home – written specifically for Children's Theatre of Charlotte's Tarradiddle Players.

Sammy Cortino (Feb. 16-17): Called "Magic's Royal Duke," Sammy Cortino gives audiences the essence of magic: inspiration to follow their dreams.

"The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs" (Feb. 22-March 10): A brilliant parody of the Three Little Pigs that follows the Big Bad Wolf on trial for his purported deeds.

"The Red Badge of Courage" (March 1-16): Stephen Crane's novel is reinvented in this musical version that uses hip-hop for a fresh spin on the tale of war and regret.

"Barker Bill's Wagtime Revue" (March 23-24): Grey Seal Puppets returns with this brand-new story making its world premiere.

"Pinkalicious: The Musical" (April 12-May 5): With Broadway-style show tunes, dancing cupcakes and a sparkling story, "Pinkalicious: The Musical" is a treat worth indulging in!

"The Third Wave" (May 9-11): Performed by Children's Theatre's teen Conservatory Company, "The Third Wave" is a true story about a high-school experiment in fascism that went out of control.

Children's Theatre offers several ways for families to save on tickets. Save $1 off each ticket purchased before Sept. 1 with the Early Bird Special, save $2 per ticket with a Pick A Package Discount (order three or more productions at the same time) and Target Family Time Series tickets offer buy one, get one free savings on select Friday evening performances. Group discounts are also available.

For more information, or to order tickets, visit ctcharlotte.org or call the Customer Sales and Service Center (10-5 M-F): 704-973-2828.

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