Mertz Theatre At FSU To Present Affordable Family Fun With 1776 FAMILY DAY! 12/1

1776 FAMILY DAY is a special matinee performance that offers theatre-loving families with young people (suggested for ages 10 and above) an affordable way to see the smash-hit play 1776. Families can purchase four tickets for $50.00-provided that two members of the group are under age 18-and be treated to additional entertainment before and after the show. A roving troubadour will roam the theatre performing songs from the American Revolution era, and actors in period costume will read from Thomas Paine's Common Sense and interact with the crowd. Hot dogs, popcorn, and ice cream will be available for purchase. After the show, the cast of 1776 will participate in a discussion from the stage and field questions from the audience.

1776 FAMILY DAY will take place on Saturday, December 1, 2012 with Pre-Show Entertainment on the Mezzanine 1 pm to 2 pm and Matinee Performance in the Mertz Theatre, 2 pm. It will take place at Mertz Theatre at the Florida State University Center for the Performing Arts located at 5555 North Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34243 (adjacent to the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art).

This event is presented by Bill Schustik, American Troubador (www.billschustik.com), and colonial period re-enactors, Brian Hersh, Education & Outreach Director for Asolo Rep and The entire cast of 1776.

The event is open to the general public. Tickets for families are $50.00 for a set of four tickets, with at least two members of the group being age 18 or younger. With the purchase of a family pack, additional tickets for patrons age 18 and younger can be purchased for $10 each. Tickets can be purchased by calling 941-351-8000 or 800-361-8388, or in person at the Asolo Repertory Theatre Box Office.

For more information about Asolo Repertory Theatre and its 2012-2013 season, visit www.asolorep.org.