Local Theatre Introduces Nation To Classic Story Of Generosity

When Alan Prewitt, Artistic Director for Phoenix Theatre's Cookie Company, picked up a copy of The Quiltmaker's Gift in a neighborhood bookstore, he knew immediately that this was one story that needed to be told. He contacted the publisher, who had attended a Cookie Company performance during a recent visit to Phoenix, and was granted permission to adapt the children's book to stage.

Now five years later, Prewitt's magical adaptation of The Quiltmaker's Gift is touching lives throughout the country as the production is performed in communities from coast to coast.

This classic musical, based on the best-selling book by Jeff Brumbeau, is a heart-warming story about a greedy king whose life is transformed by a wise quiltmaker. The joy of sharing is revealed in a way you won't soon forget!

Prewitt wrote the script and collaborated with composer Craig Bohmler and lyricists Steven Mark Kohn to transform the tale into a family musical. This story transports the audience to a magical land of singing bears, helpful birds and an army of befuddled guards to the king all under the watchful eye of Director Wanda McHatton and the production's original director and this year's choreographer, Michael Barnard.

When Prewitt first picked up a copy of the children's book, he was reminded of the quilts his grandmother had made for her 16 grandchildren and the love she stitched into each quilt. It was her legacy that touched his heart and moved him to embrace the task of bringing the book to stage.

"There's something special about The Quiltmaker's Gift that speaks to everyone," Prewitt said. "It's a classic story that is based on a universal truth with a message that is simple and clean and clear. I am honored to have been allowed to bring The Quiltmaker's Gift to stage so that so many lives can be touched and hearts warmed," Prewitt concluded.

All seats are $12. A cookie and milk reception will follow each performance as well as an autograph session with the actors. Wells Fargo is the season host sponsor and production sponsor is Watson Wyatt.

By www.phoenixtheatre.com