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Cricket Theatre presents 'Winnie the Pooh Kids' July 24-25 in Palatine

Cricket Theatre, founded in 2013 as an Illinois NFP organization with the mission of creating a safe space for children to learn life skills through theater, will stage the classic story of Winnie the Pooh at Cutting Hall's Performing Arts Center in Palatine.

Welcome to the Hundred Acre Wood, where Winnie the Pooh is once again in search of honey. Along the way, he meets his pals Tigger, Piglet, Rabbit and Owl, but soon discovers that Christopher Robin has been captured by the mysterious Backson.

As they prepare for a rescue operation, the animals learn about teamwork, friendship and, of course, sharing snacks.

The 30-minute musical, designed for elementary school-aged performers, is based on the 2011 animated feature film "Winnie the Pooh." The Cricket Theatre cast is comprised of approximately 33 students, led by Kelly Gross, Kate Zwiefelhofer and student director Katie Choi.

"I love to dance and sing, and I am most excited to sing the 'Tummy' song in the play," said Stella Engstrom, who will play Winnie the Pooh.

Twin sister Lucia Engstrom, who will take on the role of Owl, added, "I love dancing and being on the stage. And I look forward to singing the 'Backson' song."

When asked what most impressed her about this season's cast, Zwiefelhofer said, "I am so impressed by how hard the children are working, and I love seeing the magic and love of theater come alive in these little performers."

Performances will be held at 7 p.m. Saturday July 24, and 2 p.m. Sunday July 25, at Cutting Hall's Performing Arts Center, 150 E. Wood St., Palatine. Tickets are available online at cuttinghall.org.

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