The Children's Theatre of Elgin Proudly Presents "Sleeping Beauty" April 15, 2012

To mark the beginning of Children’s Theatre of Elgin’s 25th anniversary season, a second generation of artistic staff will bring to life a modern twist on the classic tale of “Sleeping Beauty” at the Hemmens Cultural Center in April.

In this original rock version of the classic Grimm Brothers fairy tale, Princess Alanna is whisked away as a baby to an enchanted land full of fairy tale creatures for protection after the evil Runa casts a spell on her. Although three good fairies do their best to protect her, Alanna pricks her finger on the thorn of a red, red rose and falls asleep under Runa's spell. Only a kiss from Alanna's true love can break the spell. Will the prince be able to save her? The answer to that question might surprise audience members.
CTE will bring “Sleeping Beauty” to life at the Hemmens Cultural Center, April 13 to 15. More than 100 children, ages 7 to 15, will act, sing and dance to this musical version of the popular fairy tale. Evening performances Friday and Saturday April 13 and 14 at 7:30 p.m. and a matinee on Sunday, April 15 at 2:00 p.m. are public performances.

The script uses the music of modern rock bands and artists including Abba, Katrina and the Waves, The Knack, The Lovin’ Spoonful, The Weather Girls, Michael Jackson and Shania Twain. A dozen songs recount the prince’s quest to wake Sleeping Beauty, entertaining the audience with original lyrics to familiar melodies.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students and seniors for public performances, available through Hemmens Cultural Center box office at 847-931-5900 or online at hemmens.org. Groups attending one of the two school shows can purchase tickets for a reduced rate. For information about school shows, please call 847-214-7550.

“Sleeping Beauty” is produced and presented by Children’s Theatre of Elgin (CTE), an Illinois 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation and in-residence ensemble at the Elgin Community College Arts Center. The Illinois Arts Council provides partial funding for the organization. CTE provides main-stage theatre experiences for young performers, ages 7-15, whose talents are showcased for theatre patrons of all ages.