Allentown Public Theatre (APT) is pleased to announce its August 2013 production of the childrens show, Pinocchio.
Performances of Sam Kuglens modern adaptation will be held at St. Lukes Lutheran Church , 417 N. 7th St., Allentown, PA.
Carlo Collodi created the popular story, in 1883, of Gepetto, a poor woodcarver, and his mischievous puppet Pinocchio who comes to life, complete with a nose that grows every time he tells a lie.
Pinocchio dreams of becoming a real boy, and through many misadventures he learns the consequences of his actions and the meaning of love and family.
Allentown resident Marcie Schlener, who directs the piece, says, "An engaging story, Pinocchio also offers much for discussion. It says a lot about peer pressure, the importance of going to school and the trouble that comes from not thinking about the consequences of what we do. It's about changing and growing into the person you want to become and learning to love someone for who they are."
Schlener has worked in Lehigh Valley theatre for over 10 years “ singing, acting and directing. In 2012, she directed James and the Giant Peach for Firebird Theatre and led a stage and screen workshop for the Neighborhood Center.
Now directing youth theatre programming for APT, she recently led an after-school theatre workshop for Trexler Middle School.
The adult cast includes Lana Brucker, Stephen Aguirre, Jen Kurtz, Vivian Rose, and Kate Hughes.
Pinocchioruns approximately one hour without intermission.
It will feature a set and costumes made from recycled materials.
Pinocchio also includes an interactive dance sequence where youth in the audience are invited to join the actors on stage.
This performance is made possible with the support of the Allentown Neighborhood Development Alliance (ANDA), funded by National Penn and PPL.
Pinocchio will be performed Friday August 16th and 23rd at 6 p.m.; Saturday, August 17th and 24th at 2 p.m.; and Sunday, August 18th and 25th at 2 p.m. Children ages 12 and under are admitted for free, and adult admission is based on donation.
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