We were so impressed with ZACH Theatre‘s family shows this year that we can’t wait to see more next season! They recently announced that the 2016-2017 Theatre for Families lineup will include classics like Charlotte’s Web and the sing-along Holiday Heroes, Elephant And Piggie: We Are In A Play!, and a brand new bi-lingual work in development for the Kennedy Center’s New Visions/ New Voices festival and workshop, JJ’s Arcade. Take note of the dates of these family plays and mark your calendars. It looks to be a wonderful year ahead for children’s theatre in Austin!
ZACH Theatre for Families 2016-2017 Schedule:
–> CHARLOTTE’S WEB
October 14-December 3, 2016, Kleberg Stage
When Fern saves Wilbur, the smallest pig in the litter, Wilbur’s fate falls in the hand of a seemingly fragile web of Charlotte the spider. Charlotte weaves a path to freedom for Wilbur in this heartwarming tale of friendship and devotion featuring bluegrass music and aerial artists from partner Sky Candy.
- Based on the Story by E.B. White
- Adapted by Joseph Robinette
- Opening: Friday, October 14, 2016 at 6:30 p.m.
- Saturday Public Shows: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
- Sunday Public Shows: at 2 p.m.
- Recommendation: Ages three and older
- Run Time: Approximately one hour
–> HOLIDAY HEROES
December 17, 2016, Topfer Stage
Now in its 17th year due to popular demand! In this hilariously fun holiday sing-along, students get into the holiday spirit with Ernie and Rufus. Celebrate the season with singing, laughter, and holiday cheer for all.
- Written by Shaun Wainwright Branigan and Jerome Schoolar
- Saturday Public Show: December 17, 2016 at 11 a.m.
- Recommendation: Ages three and older
- Run Time: Approximately one hour
–> ELEPHANT AND PIGGIE: WE ARE IN A PLAY!
February 17- April 29, 2017 Kleberg Stage
When Gerald and Piggie get together, anything is possible. They might wear silly hats, get invited to a fancy pool costume party, or learn a crazy new dance. Based on the wildly popular, beloved book series, this lively musical features Gerald and Piggie and the delightful back-up singers, the Squirrelles, who together discover the fun of being in a play and the joy of friendship. Bring your “bestus” friend and share the laughter.
- Book lyrics by Mo Willems
- Music by Deborah Wicks La Puma
- Opening: Friday, February 17, 2017 at 6:30 p.m.
- Saturday Public Shows: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
- Sunday Public Shows: at 2 p.m.
- Recommendation: Ages three and older
- Run Time: Approximately one hour
–> JJ’S ARCADE
April 14-May 7, 2017, Mexican American Cultural Center
Mario is a hard working auto mechanic in east LA who is left to raise his son, JJ, after the passing of his mother. In order to honor her memory and cope with his lack of connection with his father, JJ begins to build an arcade out of leftover cardboard from his dad’s garage. It is through JJ’s imagination and ingenuity that he is able to connect to himself and his family. Inspired by the YouTube sensation, Caine’s Arcade, this bilingual play celebrates culture, imagination, perseverance, and family. jj’s arcade will be co-produced with Teatro Vivo and presented at the Mexican American Cultural Center.
- Written by José Casas
- Opening: Friday, April 14, 2017 at 7 p.m.
- Friday Public Shows at 7 p.m.
- Saturday Public Shows: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
- Sunday Public Shows: at 2 p.m.
- Recommendation: Ages seven and older
- Run Time: Approximately one hour
–> Ticket Subscriptions: ZACH Theatre Family Series season ticket holders get the best seats at the best price all season long. For Family Series Subscription information call ZACH’s Box Office at 512-476-0541, x1, go to zachtheatre.org or visit ZACH’s Box Office located inside The Topfer Theater at 202 S. Lamar Blvd.
