Local theaters stage productions based on popular children’s books

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There are a lot of plays that are based on popular children’s books and several of them are on stage at local theaters this weekend.

Southside Theatre Guild in historic, downtown Fairburn, presents the musical comedy “Seussical” for three weekends, July 21, 22, 23, 24; July 29, 30, 31; August 5, 6, 7.  Join the hilarious misadventures of the Cat (in the Hat) and the adventures of JoJo from the planet of Who, and Horton from the jungle of Nool as they try to keep the Whos alive! 
Based on the beloved characters and stories of Dr. Seuss, “Seussical” incorporates elements from more than 15 Dr. Seuss books and includes appearances by many of his most famous characters.

“Seussical” follows the adventures of Horton the elephant, who is ridiculed for hearing voices coming from a speck of dust and JoJo, the smallest child in the city of Who, whose journey parallels Horton’s as she is ostracized for the unpopular act of thinking. 

The citizens of the Jungle of Nool are attempting to have Horton put away for his hearing voices and the citizens of Who are having adventures of their own, including a war over which side of the bread gets buttered. Will Horton save the Whos? Will the Whos be heard? 

Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Tickets are $12 – $15.  For more information, to purchase tickets, or to make reservations, visit www.STGplays.com or call 770-969-0956. 

“The Wizard of Oz” is a story for families, and Twilight is delighted to have it told by families. It’s always fun when parents step outside their comfort zone and join their children on stage, and it’s a real treat to enjoy performances by the talented people you see in the grocery store and at the bank. And the families aren’t just people, either. The Wicked Witch of the West (played by Amy Beaucham) is the offstage mother of Toto (played by Buddy).

Performances, directed by Tammy Barton with music directed by Rae Litowich (who also conducts the live orchestra filled with more local talent) will be at the Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater in Peachtree City on July 21, 22, 23 and 24. Curtain is at 8 p.m., and the gates open at 7:40 p.m. Don’t miss this family show filled with laughs, friendship, dreams and the realization that there is no place like home. “The Wizard of Oz” will touch the hearts of every family member of any age.

Tickets are $17 for general admission, $15 for students, military personnel, seniors and tables of six are available for $125. Tickets can be purchased in person or by phone at the Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater. For more information e-mail Wizard@TheTwilightTheatre.com.

The Legacy Theatre in Tyrone, will produce on their stage what is sure to be the summer’s hottest ticket on the south side of Atlanta.  A brand new, exciting musical production of J.M. Barrie’s classic tale of the boy who would not grow up, ”Peter Pan,” will delight audiences of all ages.

Filled with exciting flying effects, thrilling sword fights, and first-rate dancers and singers, this version of  “Peter Pan” will be like nothing ever seen on the Legacy stage.  

“Peter Pan” runs through July 31, Tuesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday at 3 p.m. You can also purchase tickets online at www.thelegacytheatre.org. 

Serenbe Playhouse continues its second season with the world premiere of a new adaptation of the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale The Ugly Duckling.

An original adaptation created by Joanna Brooks, Brian Clowdus, Chip Epsten and Rachel Teagle in collaboration with Brooks & Company Dance, the play will run every Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. in July and August. A show for the entire family, the seating is festival style on a hill above the lake, so audiences are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, blankets, sunscreen, sunglasses and beverages to the performances. Tickets for “The Ugly Duckling” are $15 for adults, and $10 for students and children. Tickets for all performances are available online (www.serenbeplayhouse.com) or by calling the Playhouse at 770-436-1110.