Explore the Lost and Found with Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical
A simple trip to the laundromat is about to become an exciting adventure!
Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical, runs January 25 through February 22 at the Northbrook Theatre, 3323 Walters Avenue. Based on the book, Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale by Mo Willems, the Northbrook Theatre for Young Audiences production tells the story of what happens when a favorite stuffed bunny is left behind at the laundromat. The family-friendly musical features singing, action and plenty of dancing laundry!
"What's exciting about the Knuffle Bunny musical is children and families get to discover so many wonderful new things about their favorite characters," said Director Randy White, whose recent experience includes working as the founder and artistic director of the Cardinal Stage Company in Bloomington, Indiana. "Adapting his own book, Willems adds scenes and songs that explore and deepen relationships."
The musical cleverly expands on key story elements, including a dance with a larger-than-life Knuffle Bunny that expresses the main character's attachment to the toy. Audiences also will be treated to a spectacular use of puppetry throughout the show.
"It's so much fun watching objects come to life as giant toys, animals and even oversized, out-of-control laundry," White said. "We also get to meet a range of additional neighborhood residents, including the singing, dancing denizens of the local laundromat. And finally, there is a lovely guest appearance by Willems' much-loved bus-driving pigeon!"
Northbrook Theatre for Young Audiences is a professional theatre company dedicated to presenting the highest quality productions for youth and family audiences. NTYA operates under a Theatre For Young Audiences Agreement with Actors' Equity Association, the national union of Actors and Stage Managers.
Cast members include Grace Bobber (Mom), Sam Shankman (Dad), Elizabeth Stenholt (Trixie), Matthew Weidenbener, Audie Deinlein and Kaleb Risjiwick as the ensemble/puppeteers, with Chamaya Moody and Adam Ross Brody understudying. Music is directed by David Zizic and choreography by Tuesdai B. Perry. The production team includes Lauren M. Nichols (scenic design/scenic artist), Caitlin McLeod (costume design), Kurt Ottinger (lighting design), Dave Wisniewski (props design), Sara Morrison (costume coordinator), Kat Pleviak (puppetry design) and Sean McStravick (AEA Stage Manager).
"I adore this cast," Director White said. "They are a remarkably talented lot, and I'm delighted that I get to watch each of them bring energy and insight to these wonderful characters."
Upcoming showtimes include:
Weekends
• Saturdays, January 25, February 1, 8, 15, 22 at 10am and 1pm
• Sunday, February 9 at 2pm
Weekdays
• Monday, February 3 at 10:30am
• Wednesday, February 5 at 9:30am and 1:30pm
• Thursday, February 13 at 10am
• Friday, February 14 at 9:30am
• Monday, February 17 at 10am
• Thursday, February 20 at 10:30am
Sensory-Friendly Performance
• Sunday, February 2 at 2pm
Advanced ticket purchases are recommended. Tickets are $14 and can be purchased at nbparks.org or in person at the Leisure Center, 3323 Walters Avenue. Groups of 20 or more receive a discount of $10 a ticket. Party packages also are available.
For more information, call (847) 291-2995.