Theatre News Wire

A new musical version of Goodnight Moon like you've never seen before will launch the 2011-2012 season for Chicago Children's Theatre (CCT), Chicago's #1 presenter of top-quality professional children's theater.

And one thing is certain, Chicago Children's Theatre's technicolor take on Margaret Wise Brown's beloved bedtime tale promises to be an "eyes wide open" show for audiences of all ages. Catchy songs performed by live musicians, delightful choreography, a colorful set that pays homage to Clement Hurd's vivid book illustrations and the humorous antics of one very nocturnal bunny will all play a part in CCT's family-friendly celebration of one of the most iconic children's books of all time. Watch as Bunny's room magically comes alive as he dances and sings his way to sweet dreams through nursery rhyme scenes with dancing bears with chairs, the Cat and the Fiddle, the Cow Jumping Over the Moon and even a trip through the night sky with dancing constellations.

Already announced are the show's lead creative team: David Kersnar (director) is a founding member of Lookingglass Theatre, where his directing credits include The Last Act of Lilka Kadison and the critically-acclaimed musicals Brundibar and Sita Ram. Mark Messing (music arrangements), current musical director of the Chicago-based circus punk marching band Mucca Pazza and former music director for Redmoon Theatre, is creating snappy new arrangements for CCT's production. The original book, music and lyrics are by Chad Henry.

Some of Chicago's top professional theater artists have joined the Goodnight Moon creative team, including Andra Velis Simon (music director), Tommy Rapley (choreography), Rick Simms (sound design), Jacqueline and Richard Penrod (set design), Sarah Hughey (light design) Alison Siple (costume design), and Jesse Gafney (prop design). The cast features Alex Goodrich as Bunny, Sara Sevigny as Old Lady, Becky Poole as Mouse, and Aaron Holland in multiple roles.

Chicago Children's Theatre's Goodnight Moon will fill the Victory Gardens Biograph Theater 299-seat mainstage with joy and laughter October 27 through December 23, 2011 Single tickets ($25 children; $35 adults) as well as Flex Passes offering a 20% discount on Chicago Children's Theatre's 2011-2012 season are on sale now at chicagochildrenstheatre.org. Phone and in-person sales begin September 1 via the Victory Gardens Box Office, 773.871.3000. For group inquiries, contact GroupTix at (773) 327-3778 or visit GroupTix.net.