The Growing Stage's BABES IN TOYLAND Opens Today

The Growing Stage, The Children's Theatre of New Jersey, located in the Historic Palace Theatre on Route 183 in Netcong, New Jersey presents its original musical production of BABES IN TOYLAND from today, November 25th, to December 18th with performances Fridays at 7:30 PM, Saturdays and Sundays at 4:00 PM.

The stage production was adapted from the popular 1934 MGM classic which featured the famed comedy team Laurel and Hardy and was originally inspired by the Victor Hugo operetta of the same name. The Growing Stage's work was conceived by company founder and Executive Director, Stephen L. Fredericks and TGS Artist in Residence, Perry Arthur Kroeger who wrote the adaptation and lyrics that have been set to the music of Victor Hugo. Fredericks is directing the production.

The production's story line loosely follows the movie that inspired it. Something is amiss in the Land of Make Believe. Barnaby is threatening Mother Goose with eviction unless her daughter, Bo Peep, marries him. One of the Three Little Pigs is missing and on top of that, even Christmas is in doubt! Who could possibly save the day? Tweedle-Dee and Tweedle-Dum? No, really, who could possible save the day?

BABES IN TOYLAND features many of the professional artists that are familiar to the Growing Stage audiences. Danny Campos (everyone one's favorite FROSTY) and Robert Mintz (from the Scarecrow in WIZARD OF OZ to Pete in CODE BREAKER) bring the life the roles of Tweedle-Dee and Tweedle Dum.

Jenna Morris (Glinda the Good Witch also from WIZARD and Grandma Bear from BUSYTOWN) portrays Mother Goose with Ryan Malyar (The Tin Woodsman from the WIZARD OF OZ) as the evil Barnaby.

Rosemary Glennon, (who recently made her professional debut as Bernice in THE CODE BREAKER) plays Bo Peep alongside Will James Nash who is making his TGS debut as Tom-Tom. Rounding out the cast are twentythree community artists of all ages who are sharing their talents to make this a very special holiday treat for the entire family.

The Growing Stage is committed to creating and presenting professional theatre for young people and their families. "It is not an offset or side programming feature of our organization - it's our life's work, it's what we as artists are dedicated to create for our audiences" states company director, Steve Fredericks. Housed in the historic Palace Theatre on Route 183 in Netcong, the organization currently celebrating its 30th season, strives to provide audiences with the unique and affordable opportunity to share a fun, culturally significant moment in their intimate and very special venue. The company is also showcasing its restoration of their front façade which has recently undergone major changes in keeping with its recognition of being on the National, State and County Registers of Historic Places.

Tickets for BABES IN TOYLAND are $16 for adults, $14 for children and seniors, with group rates available. Tickets can be purchased by calling the TGS Box Office at (973) 347-4946 or logging onto their website at www.growingstage.com. The Growing Stage - The Children's Theatre of New Jersey programs are made possible, in part, by funding from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, and contributions from numerous corporations, foundations, and individuals.

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