Chicago Theatre Produces New Musicals For Children

Theatre Building Chicago presents The Magic Paint Brush by the award winning team Christina Biggs (book) and Marianne Kallen (music & lyrics), debuting October 3-18, 2007. Based on Chinese folklore, this musical tells of Liang and his village who live in poverty because of greedy Emperor Hsin – until a magician appears with a mysterious paintbrush that brings pictures to life. This tale addresses themes of generosity and the power of imagination. Marianne Kallen and Christina Biggs won the "Spirit of Moon Dance" award from the Moon Dance International Film Festival for their "kids libretto" for THE ADVENTURES OF ANANSI THE SPIDER (produced February-March, 2007 by Theatre Building Chicago).

Premiering in 2008, Freddy the Flat-Faced School Bus is a new musical by Jill Marshall Work (book and lyrics) and Howard Pfeifer (music), performing February 27- March 13, 2008. Freddy has a hard time finding a job and fitting in with the standard school buses – until a citywide weather crisis compels everyone to pull together. Featuring a cast of singing, dancing school buses, this upbeat musical focuses on themes of tolerance and acceptance.

Theatre Building Chicago will present its final show, The Tale of Pigling Bland by Suzy Conn (Book and Lyrics) and Mitchell Kitz (music) beginning July 9-24, 2008. Adapted from Beatrix Potter's classic story, this musical follows the adventures of a sensible young pig, who is forced to leave home and find his way in the world. Full of delightful animal characters, the musical emphasizes themes of friendship and cooperation.

Theatre Building Chicago's newest musical program for kids will feature adult professional actors performing new works created by members of the musical theatre writers workshop. Kids can meet the actors and explore sets, costumes and props. Group discounts offer value-added bonuses including on-site lunch facilities, educational materials and much more.

Theatre Building Chicago has devoted 30 years to cultivating new American musical theatre by supporting writers, lyricists and composers, while staging over 125 new musicals in Chicago. Members of TBC's musical theatre writers workshop meet regularly to collaborate under the guidance of Artistic Director, John Sparks. -- www.theatrebuildingchicago.org