Pinocchio takes to the stage at UD Jan. 18

12:50 p.m., Jan. 2, 2003--The University of Delaware’s 2002-03 Family Performing Arts Series continues with a performance of “Pinocchio” at 2 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 18, in Mitchell Hall. The performance is nearly sold out, with mostly single seats remaining. It is especially recommended for children in grades pre-K through fourth, or ages 4-9. A special buffet luncheon will be offered prior to the performance at the Blue & Gold Club.

Featuring live music, lavish costumes and colorful storybook settings, the production by the Gingerbread Players and Jack brings the lesson of learning right from wrong alive on the stage.

Following the original story of Carlo Collodi’s beloved classic, this heart-warming drama emphasizes Pinocchio’s struggles to make the right decisions in order to enjoy the rewards of becoming a real boy. Lush picture-book quality sets transport children to the marvelous land of make-believe, populated by all of the favorite characters from the story.

Tickets for this and all 2002-03 Family Performing Arts Series events are $10 for the general public, $8 for UD faculty, staff, alumni and senior citizens and $6 for children and students, including full-time UD undergraduate or graduate students and students in high school or younger. Ticket orders may be phoned in, using a credit card, to the Hartshorn box office at 831-2204, or purchased at the box office in Hartshorn Hall, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is a 10 percent discount for ticket orders of 10 or more.

The buffet luncheon begins at 12:30 p.m., and features magical macaroni and cheese and Gepetto’s chicken fingers. Cost is $12.95 for adults and $6.75 for children ages 5 to 11, gratuity included. For reservations and information, call 831-2582.

UD’s annual Family Performing Art Series offers an outstanding diversity of artistic programs and some of the world’s most exciting musicians and dance and theatre companies suited to families and young viewers in the community.

The 2002-03 Performing Arts Series and Family Series are made possible, in part, by grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Delaware Division of the Arts, a state agency committed to promoting and supporting the arts in Delaware, as well as support provided by Barba & Reynolds Insurance Agency, Embassy Suites-Newark/Wilmington South and Arby’s.

For information about other upcoming 2002-03 Performing Arts Series and Family Series visit [www.udel.edu/performingarts], send e-mail to [performingarts@udel.edu] or call (302) 831-2204.

Article by Beth Thomas