(Shawnee on the Delaware, Pa)- When it comes to classic and beloved musicals, it’s safe to say that Disney is one of the first names that pops into mind. To kick off the 2017 children’s theatre season, the Shawnee Playhouse starts strong with a Disney favorite, 101 Dalmatians Kids.

Based on the 1956 animated film, and its predeceasing novel, the musical follows the story of Dalmatians Pongo and Perdita, who have just welcomed a new litter of puppies to the world. When villain and fur-connoisseur Cruella De Vil sees these puppies, she devises a plot to steal the puppies in order to use them for a new coat.

This fur-raising classic has delighted audiences around the world for decades with 101 of the cutest heroes to ever set their paws on the stage. The original production on Broadway was produced by Luis Alvarez and sponsored by Purina Dog Chow. The music for the show was written by former Styx member Dennis DeYoung, who also co-wrote the lyrics as well with B.T. McNicholl. The musical was praised for its innovation and creativeness, especially for its use of real dogs on stage.Dalmatians coat

The Shawnee Playhouse’s production of 101 Dalmatians Kids will be produced by Mackenzie Maula. Although new to directing, Maula is no newcomer to the stage, having been in countless productions before. Some of her acting credits include Marta in The Sound of Music, Belinda in A Christmas Carol, Sphrintza in Fiddler on the Roof, and Annie in Annie here at the Shawnee Playhouse. She can also be seen on TV as well, having been on QVC, CBS Philadelphia, and a Holy Guacamole commercial.

101 Dalmatians Kids will begin its run in Shawnee on June 23rd and run through September 2nd. All tickets will be $10. Show times will be as follows:

11 am Jun 23, 24, 29, 30, Jul 1, 6, 13, 20, 28, 29, Aug 4, 11, 12, 18, 25, 26, Sep 2

7 pm Jul 7 (with campers), 14, 21 (with campers), Aug 18, Sep 1

For more information or to purchase tickets, go to TheShawneePlayhouse.com or call (570)-421-5093.

The Shawnee Playhouse works to provide quality live theatre to the residents and vacationers of Shawnee by offering a variety of high quality productions. As an organization, our focus is on providing affordable entertainment year-round, as well as serving as a training ground for young theatre performers and technicians. Everything done by the Shawnee Playhouse is in an effort to be engaging, entertaining, and to foster appreciation of live theatre for adults, teens and children.