Orlando Shakespeare Theater in Partnership with UCF (http://orlandoshakes.org) continues its 2012-2013 Theater for Young Audiences Series (TYA) with the whimsical tale, A Year with Frog and Toad. Based on the books of Arnold Lobel, this musical adventure is recommended for families with children ages 4 and older. A Year with Frog and Toad will be in the Margeson Theater from October 20 – November 17, 2012 with preview performances on October 18 and October 19. Free fall-related activities, crafts, and a costume parade will be provided by Amaya Papaya one hour before the opening performance on Saturday, October 20th at 2 p.m.

A Tony Award Nominee for Best Musical, A Year with Frog and Toad celebrates an unlikely friendship between an eternally optimistic Frog and a rather grumpy Toad as they try to keep their sleds on the ground, kites in the air, and themselves from devouring cookies. Their friendship flourishes through triumphs and challenges, sending a heart-warming message to the whole family.

“We love to present family musicals and A Year With Frog and Toad is one of the best. It will be a fun-filled show for the entire family,” says TYA coordinator Lisa Devins Horohoe.

Following each weekend performance of A Year with Frog and Toad, children will have an opportunity to meet and get autographs with the entire cast. Orlando Shakes also offers weekday student matinees specifically for schools and day cares Tuesdays through Fridays. School groups purchasing 10 tickets or more enjoy significant discounts, with curriculum guides and additional resources available for teachers; please inquire at the Box Office for rates and information.

Taking the reins for this production is director Steve McKinnon who directed multiple children’s shows including last year’s Orlando Shakes favorite, Miss Nelson is Missing. Leading the cast is a dynamic duo of newcomers, Brandon Alpert and Nathan Sebens, who play Frog and Toad respectively. Rounding out this list of players are Casey Noble as Snail, Lauren Butler as Mouse, and Kelly Kilgore as Turtle. The creative team who will convert the stage to a woodland oasis include choreographer Kim Ball, set designer Robin Watts, costume designer Mel Barger, lighting designer Mary Hefferman, and sound designer Britt Sandusky.

In addition to public performances at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, Orlando Shakes offers an opportunity for families to delve deeper into the story through fun and interactive story times. Led by members of the cast of A Year with Frog and Toad, these engaging 20-minute readings are an excellent precursor to the performance. Everyone attending will have a chance to win free tickets to attend a performance of A Year with Frog and Toad at Orlando Shakespeare Theater.

• Saturday, October 20 at 10 a.m. - Barnes & Noble in the Colonial Plaza Market Place (2418 E. Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32803)

Orlando Shakes also offers new opportunities for the deaf, hard of hearing, or differently abled. American Sign Language interpretation is offered during a performance of A Year with Frog and Toad on Saturday, November 4th at 4:30 p.m. There is no additional charge for this service. Provided by Florida Hands & Voices.

Single tickets, TYA Flex Passes, and group discounts are available by calling (407) 447-1700, visiting http://www.orlandoshakes.org/tickets, or purchasing in person at the Box Office located inside the Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 East Rollins Street in Orlando’s Loch Haven Cultural Park.

The 2012-2013 Theater for Young Audiences Series is made possible by the City of Orlando. Orlando Shakespeare Theater in Partnership with UCF is supported by United Arts of Central Florida with funds from the United Arts campaign and by State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Arts Council.

WHERE:

Orlando Shakespeare Theater in the Margeson Theater

Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 East Rollins Street, Orlando, FL 32803

WHEN:

October 20 – November 17, 2012

Preview Performances: October 18 and October 19

Opening Day: October 20 at 2 p.m.

Autograph session after each weekend performance!

TICKETS:

Call the Box Office at 407-447-1700 or visit www.orlandoshakes.org

DATES AND PRICES:

Tuesday, Thursday, Friday at 10:15 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. – all seats $9

Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. – all seats $9

Saturday at 2:00 p.m.– all seats $12

Sunday at 4:30 p.m. – all seats $12