2015-2016 TOURING SEASON
THEATRE IV BRINGS THEATRE FOR YOUNG AUDIENCES DIRECTLY TO YOUR VENUE.
“Teachers loved it… students loved it…. This is exactly what we want to present…. with kids leaving our theater wanting to invest more in the subject matter. welldone Theatre IV!” –The Grand Opera House, Oshkosh, WI
Who We Are Theatre IV is celebrating 40 years as a nonprofit, professional theatre located in Richmond, Virginia. Since 1975 we have created exciting and innovative theatrical productions for young audiences. Each year, we tour national-caliber plays and musicals to hundreds of venues throughout the nation.
What We Provide
2
•
Professional productions of literary classics, holiday shows, and historical biographies connected to the school curriculum
•
40 years experience of touring professional theatre for young audiences
•
Reliable and talented company of actors who load-in and load-out the entire production, including attractive sets and costumes and sound systems
•
Competitive pricing structure
•
Question and Answer sessions between our cast and your audience
•
Meet and Greet the Cast at your request
FALL 2015 Hiawatha GRADES K - 5 *new show
Book and Lyrics by Stuart Hawk Music by Andrea Beasalt Early Native American history and culture come thrillingly and factually to life in this fun, musical theatre adventure based on the classic story of young Hiawatha, arguably our continent’s most important and famous early leader. Approximately 150 years before the first permanent English colony at Jamestown, Hiawatha made history when he peacefully united the Five Nations of the Iroquois Confederacy. His name was immortalized in Longfellow’s 1855 epic poem, and his exciting childhood and heroic work are celebrated in countless children’s books from Disney and various authors. Renowned for his heroic work in peacemaking, Hiawatha’s unforgettable story is great fun and essential education today.
Literary Classic, Language Arts, Multi-Cultural, History, Biography, Music
Town Mouse and Country Mouse GRADES K - 5 Book by Ford Flannagan Music and Lyrics by Michael Strong and K Strong Based on Aesop’s Fable When fast-talking Town Mouse touts the abundant riches of the big city, Country Mouse is tempted to move there. Will the riches of town become irresistible or will Country Mouse feel the tug of the different kind of riches left behind? Watch this rock and roll hoe-down musical and find out!
Folk Tale, Fable Language Arts, Literary Classic, Music, Reading, Character Development
The Emperor’s Nightingale GRADES K - 5
*new show By Bo Wilson The nightingale of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale is a miracle of love, generosity, and forgiveness in this original musical adaptation. Though the Emperor banishes the nightingale in preference for a jeweled mechanical imitation, the little bird remains faithful and returns years later when the Emperor is near death and no one else can help him.
Folk Tale, Fable Language Arts, Literary Classic, Music, Reading, Character Development
3
Tales as Tall as the Sky GRADES K - 5 By Cliff Todd Designed to encourage interest in books and reading, Tales as Tall as the Sky is the story of three children in their tree house at the end of the summer, complaining that they have nothing exciting to do. When one produces a book of American tall tales, they begin to explore the wild and adventurous stories of Pecos Bill, John Henry, and Hurricane Hallie, bringing to vibrant life this exciting literary genre.
Folk Tale, Fable Language Arts, Literary Classic, Music, Reading, Character Development
Sleeping Beauty GRADES K - 5 Book, Music, and Lyrics by Richard R. Giersch This musical adaptation from the original story by Charles Perrault follows the plot of the traditional fairy tale, but adds delightful surprises and comic situations. The Fairies wondrous gifts to the child are given until one disgruntled fairy arrives to announce that her invitation was overlooked. A prick on the spinning wheel will take its toll on the kingdom. Will destroying all the spinning wheels be enough to save the king’s daughter? Find out as this tale illustrates that “beauty is in the eye of the beholder” and true goodness is found only in a loving heart.
Folk Tales, Language Arts, History, Music, Reading, Character Development
4
“Well, Theatre IV did it again! Wonderful, funny, sensitive, and informative production – what a joy to watch and learn from great enthusiastic, energetic, and friendly performers.” –Wesleyan College, Macon, GA
HOLIDAY CLASSICS DECEMBER 2015
A Christmas Carol GRADES K - 5 By Steve Perigard Music and Lyrics by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill Perhaps the best loved holiday story of all time, our adaptation of Dickens’ classic is particularly suited to children, and features a magnificent score by Jule Styne, the composer of Broadway’s immortal Peter Pan, Gypsy and Funny Girl. All the joy, sentiment and meaning are here, without being too scary for young audiences.
Family Ties, Language, Literary Classic, Music, Reading
‘Twas the Night Before Christmas GRADES K - 5 Book, Music, and Lyrics by Bruce Craig Miller Inspired by the timeless poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” and by the real life of its author, Clement Moore, this hilarious musical introduces Santa in a particularly beneficent light. This classic from Theatre IV has been charming audiences nationwide for over 20 years.
Family Ties, Folk Tales, Language, Literary Classic, Music, Reading
The Shoemaker and the Christmas Elves GRADES K - 5 Book, Music, and Lyrics by Paul Deiss A heartwarming holiday musical! Join us as Theatre IV takes a yuletide spin on the classic Brothers’ Grimm fairy tale. Delight in the story of a poor Shoemaker and the magical elves who show him the true meaning of Christmas!
Family Ties, Folk Tales, Music, Reading, Self-Esteem, Tales from Other Lands
“Theatre IV is a real asset to our arts and education program. The plays are exciting and excellent quality at an affordable price.” –Warren County Arts Commission, Bowling Green, KY
5
BLACK HISTORY SPRING 2016
I Have a Dream GRADES 3 - ADULT By Bruce Craig Miller The phenomenal impact of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is chronicled in this compelling dramatization of the life and times of one of the most influential and charismatic leaders of the American Century. Inspired by the arrest of Rosa Parks, Dr. King becomes the prime mover behind the Montgomery, Alabama bus boycott, putting his philosophy of non-violent protest to work. He gains national recognition and becomes the dominant force in the Civil Rights Movement during its decade of greatest achievement. Your audience will be inspired by the story of this great leader’s struggle and his dream of lifting “our nation from the quicksand of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood.”
Biography, Language Arts, History, Multi-Cultural, Public Speaking, Reading, Self-Esteem, Character Development
Songs from the Soul GRADES 3 - ADULT Book by William Dye Music and Lyrics by Various Artists
“I am continually impressed by the skill
This revue of African-American music from slave songs to jazz to blues to rap is not only toe-tapping entertainment, it’s also a vital history lesson that teaches pride, responsibility and respect.
Language Arts, History, Multi-Cultural, Music
and artistry of their performances.” –Smithsonian Institution
SAVE MONEY! 6
Ask us about block booking.
Arthur Ashe: Champion of Honor GRADES 3 - 9 By Bruce Craig Miller Arthur Ashe, a world-class athlete, author, social activist and committed husband and father, was a national hero and one of the foremost African American leaders and role models of the 20th Century. But Arthur’s life was never without challenge. Arthur Ashe’s story is one of character, commitment and triumph.
Biography, Family Ties, Government, History, Multi-Cultural, Reading, Sports
Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad GRADES 3 - 12 Book and Lyrics by Douglas Jones Music by Ron Barnett This stirring drama with music is a classic tribute to the great American who freed herself and hundreds of her people from the bonds of slavery. Her courage helped to change the world. Share with your students her adventurous life, the joys, sorrows, and challenges faced by this brave woman in this accurate and deeply moving musical history lesson.
Family Ties, History, Language, Biography, Multi-Cultural, Music, Self Esteem, Women’s Studies
7
SPRING 2016 The Frog Prince GRADES K - 5 Book and Lyrics by Douglas Jones Music by Ron Barnett When a spoiled princess drops her golden ball into a well, a noble frog retrieves it in exchange for her promise of friendship. The princess breaks her promise, and must face the music in this colorful, funny, faithful adaptation of the classic folk story first recorded by the Brothers Grimm. Our beautiful production of The Frog Prince showcases an amphibian ensemble created by internationally acclaimed puppet master Terry Snyder.
Art, Family Ties, Folk Tale, Language Arts, Literary Classic, Music, Puppets, Reading, Character Development
The Little Red Hen GRADES K - 5 Based on the traditional folk story Book, Music and Lyrics by Ford Flannagan “Who’ll help me plant the seed?,” asks the plucky red hen as she begins the process that goes into making a loaf of her delicious bread. “Not I,” say the sheep, the cow, the horse, and the pig. They all have better things to do. But, “a hen’s gotta do what a hen’s gotta do,” and so our crimson heroine perseveres until her work is done. The tricks of the conniving fox combine with the hen’s common sense to add adventure and a sound moral lesson to this classic, feel good, foot-stompin’ country musical.
Folk Tales, Language Arts, Reading, Science, Music, Peer Pressure, Self Esteem, Character Development
8
“Theatre IV combines professional craftsmanship with delightful enthusiasm and the result is superb production value.” –The Children’s Museum, Indianapolis, Indiana
GRAND PRODUCTION EXPANDED SET | LARGER CAST | DEDICATED TECHNICIAN
20,000 Leagues under the Sea GRADES K - 5
*NEW SHOW
Based on the Novel by Jules Verne Book, Music and Lyrics by Bitan Thomas
This rousing musical adventure beneath the high seas is the perfect way to captivate minds, support the earth science and geography curricula, and introduce young readers to one of the most popular landmarks of world literature. Join Captain Nemo, Professor Elaine Aronnax, and harpooner Ned Land as they explore the undersea world in this electrifying adaptation of a 19th century classic. With an expanded cast, lavish sets and costumes, lively music, and stunning deep ocean videography, this classic yarn will captivate your students.
Literary Classic, Music, Reading, Science, History, Earth Science
“Theatre IV brings us beautifully scripted, designed and performed shows. This is top of the line quality, and the performers as pleasant to deal with off stage, as they are talented on stage.” –National Theatre, Washington, DC
9
NE W!
SUMMER TOUR
2016 The Little Red Hen GRADES K - 5 Based on the traditional folk story Book, Music and Lyrics by Ford Flannagan “Who’ll help me plant the seed?,” asks the plucky red hen as she begins the process that goes into making a loaf of her delicious bread. “Not us,” say the sheep, the cow, the horse, and the pig. They all have better things to do. But, “a hen’s gotta do what a hen’s gotta do,” and so our crimson heroine perseveres until her work is done. But, the tricks of the conniving fox combine with the hen’s common sense to add adventure and a sound moral lesson to this classic, feel good, foot-stompin’ country musical.
Folk Tales, Language Arts, Reading, Science, Music, Peer Pressure, Self Esteem, Character Development
10
Booking Details •
Call for competitive pricing
•
Discounts for multiple bookings and block bookers within 150 miles; may include waiving gasoline surcharge.
•
On-line Support materials including pictures and study guides at www.TheatreIV.org
•
Plays have a running time of 50-60 minutes
•
oad-in just two hours before L 1st scheduled performance
•
Breakdown in just 1 hour or less
•
Minimal Tech Requirements
*All titles and tours in this brochure are subject to change or cancellation without notice.
How to Contact Us Eric Williams By Phone: By Fax: By Email:
Nationwide Toll Free: 800.235.8687 in Richmond at 804.783.1688 Ext. 1119 804.775.2325
[email protected]
or Visit our website at www.TheatreIV.org
SAVE MONEY! Ask us about block booking.
11
Set the Stage for Learning www.TheatreIV.org
SEASON
TOURING
2015-2016
114 West Broad Street • Richmond, VA 23220
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID PERMIT No. 229 Richmond, VA
