Lionheart Youth Theatre

A modern twist on the Prokofiev classic, this production features captivating large-scale puppetry and an original score performed live by Mother Falcon, a band NPR describes as “the little orchestra that can do the impossible.” This exceptional experience leaves audiences with increased empathy for the animals that share our earth.

The Mayhem Poets

They’re back! These young spoken word artists celebrate the power of poetry through rhythm, hip-hop, and theatrical technique, communicating to students important truths about the power of words. The Mayhem Poets combine their backgrounds in theatre, comedy, and music to create poetry that directly resonate with their audience members. Students will be captivated by their ability to effortlessly perform incredibly catchy and contemporary raps, while effectively showing the power of poetry.

Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia

The worlds of these classic books by Margaret Wise Brown are vividly created on stage using large-scale puppets, and evocative score, and stunning scenic effects. Good Night Moon is the quintessential celebration of nighttime rituals, while The Runaway Bunny tells the tale of a little bunny who can’t seem to escape his mother’s love, no matter how far he travels. Mermaid Theatre’s gentle and masterful command of larger than life puppets brings these treasured stories to life in a truly unique way.

Geordie Productions

What is it like to be 16 years old, a girl, a Muslim, and a refugee all at the same time? At Fatima’s new high school, she’s the only one wearing a hijab. Her parents transferred her after hateful graffiti was found on the wall of her old school. But there’s plenty of ignorance and assumptions at her new school too. It isn’t until she begins an unlikely friendship with Jorah, a young man with a troubled reputation, that she starts to feel less like an outsider. How can she balance this new relationship with her family’s faith? This play will spark meaningful discussions on the judgements and assumptions we make based on our perceived differences. This incredibly raw and powerful production challenges stereotypes and encourages real conversation about race, religion, and identity.

Childsplay

The cast of this preschool favorite has gone to the dogs – with cars, hats, audience participation, and even a wild game of ball as this hilarious visual spectacle and musical romp manages to sneak in some important lessons about life between innings! Based on the delightful book by P.D. Eastman, this production is a visual spectacle that will have students laughing out loud and dancing in their seats!

Virginia Repertory Theatre

This compelling dramatization of the life and times of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. will inspire students as they experience the civil rights leader’s struggle and dream of lifting “our nation from the quicks of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood.” Using excerpts of Dr. King’s most iconic letters and speeches, this performance gives dimension and immediacy to his powerful words.

Lightwire Theater

From the company that brought us The Ugly Duckling, this innovative performance fusing lightwires and dance tells the story of a bullied mouse who finds himself on the adventure of a lifetime. Marvin the Mouse wants to be popular; he is constantly bullied and picked on by the “cool” rats. As respite from the continuous badgering, Marvin retreats into his science books and a world of fantasy. He longs to have adventures and to be the hero. This character education piece is all about celebrating differences among us and following your dreams.

Theatreworks USA

Freedom Train tells the thrilling story of Harriet Tubman, the Moses of her people, in a fascinating series of highly theatrical scenes that use dance, dialogue, and music of the period. Songs include “Follow the Drinking Gourd,” “Steal Away,” “Wade in the Water,” “Good News, the Chariot’s A-comin’,” and many others still sung today. Freedom Train is the story of self-sacrifice, dedication and survival, laced with warmth and a sense of humor that celebrates the human spirit — a universal story for all.

Cahoots NI

A non-verbal tale featuring magic, music, and puppetry based on the Chris Haughton book of the same name. Students will follow the delightful and surprising journey of a family adventuring through the woods on a journey to capture a beautiful bird! This enchanting production teaches everyone that kindness and teaching nature with respect is more important than getting what you want at any cost.