KIDS + FAMILIES

The Grand 1894 Opera House welcomes back Mermaid Theatre Company this fall for A Brown Bear, a Moon, and a Caterpillar: Treasured Stories by Eric Carle on Wednesday, November 30th. This production - part of The Grand's Serious Fun Children’s Series - will offer a performance at 10am for school groups as well as an evening performance – perfect for the entire family – at 7pm.

Featuring stunning visual effects and innovative puppetry, this triple-bill celebrates three of internationally acclaimed author and designer Eric Carle's most beloved tales - The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?; and Papa, Please Get the Moon For Me- retold on stage in black light.

First published in 1969, The Very Hungry Caterpillar tells the classic tale of the caterpillar eating his way "through the book" as it grows from egg to cocoon to beautiful butterfly, as it teaches children the days of the week, counting, and good nutrition. First published in 1967, Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? was written by Bill Martin, Jr. and illustrated by Carle, and has served to help hundreds of thousands of toddlers to associate colors and meanings to objects. Regarded as one of his most imaginatively-designed works, Papa, Please Get the Moon For Me, has been delighting young audience since its publication in 1986 and offers a splendid introduction to the wonderment of the lunar cycle. 

Founded in 1972, Mermaid Theatre's unique adaptations of children's literature have delighted more than four million young people on four continents. The company ranks among North America's most respected theatres for the young, and has won widespread recognition for its important ambassadorial role, and it’s puppetry programs that stimulate learning as well as enthusiasm for the art of puppetry.

Offered again this season for the Serious Fun evening shows are pre-performance dinners of Hot Dogs or PB&J sandwiches (with side and drink) which will be available from 6-6:45pm in Edna’s Room at The Grand. An additional ticket is needed for the dinners and reservations are requested. The cost is $5 per person.