TV: First Look at Highlights of Chicago Children's Theatre's MR. CHICKEE'S FUNNY MONEY

Now through March 2, thousands of Chicago-area kids, parents and teachers are going to be grooving to Mr. Chickee's Funny Money, Chicago Children's Theatre's all-new, R&B family musical based on the popular children's book by Newbery Award-winner Christopher Paul Curtis. BroadwayWorld has a first look at highlights below!

Original songs by Motown legend Lamont Dozier, and additional music and lyrics by his son Paris are turned out by a four-piece live band on stage. Kids won't even know (but parents will appreciate) that they're being treated to a live medley of popular musical genres ranging from Motown, disco, rap, rock, jazz and hip hop.

The story follows 10-year-old Steven, a self-proclaimed spy and president of the "Flint Future Detectives."At the heart of this whimsical journey is an intelligent, entrepreneurial boy who must discover the secret to a mysterious dollar bill that appears to be legal tender but has way too many zeroes and an unexpected face. With his pals and their giant dog Zoopy, Steven discovers that family, friends, imagination and determination are the true keys to success; and sharing the spotlight with others can make one even richer.

Mr. Chickee's Funny Money runs now through March 2, 2014 at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn, Chicago. Press openings are tonight, January 24 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, January 25 at 11 a.m. Single tickets start at $25. To purchase, visit chicagochildrenstheatre.org or call (872) 222-9555. For information on discounted group rates for schools, playgroups, birthday parties and scouting organizations, visit GroupTix.net or call (773) 327-3778. Mr. Chickee's Funny Money is recommended for ages 6 and up. Running time is 75 minutes with no intermission.

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