Princess Academy Plays Stages Theatre Co 3/4-27

Winner of a Newbery Honor in 2006, Shannon Hale's "Princess Academy" offers action, excitement and adventure for boys and girls, ages 8 and up when it premieres March 4 - 27 at Stages Theatre Company (STC).

Despite the title "Princess Academy," the production, scripted by Buffy Sedlachek, tells the story of a community, which the wise men of the King's court have declared is home to the next princess. Composer Aaron Gabriel, an Ivey Award winner, wrote music to represent traditional Sami music that adds a unique backdrop to this captivating adventure.

Set in a mountain community, "Princess Academy" follows the story of Miri, who attends a special academy with other young girls to study and prepare themselves to become royalty and only one will be chosen by the prince. Through their journey, the young girls will encounter trials, danger, and for Miri, an ultimate choice must be made.

STC Artistic Director Sandy Boren-Barrett is directing "Princess Academy" with Ivey Award winner and co-director Matthew Michael Ferrell, and says more than 100 young adults came to audition for this production. "The young adults who came to audition, did so because they all loved the book."

"Princess Academy" begins March 4 and ends March 27. Purchase tickets by visiting www.stagestheatre.org for performance dates and times, or call the Box Office at (952) 979-1111, Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for children (ages 5 to 17) and seniors (60+). Lap passes are available for free (ages 0 to 2) and $5 for (ages 3 to 4).

Stages Theatre Company was founded in 1984 and since then has grown to become one of the largest professional theatres for young audiences in the country. We engage young artists with themes relevant to their lives and involve them in creating magical works featuring young people in meaningful roles. Through theatrical productions, workshops, conservatory classes and other outreach programs, Stages Theatre Company annually serves more than 125,000 young people and their families.