Chicago Children's Theater Listings Note: Dates listed are performance beginning and end dates. Please call for specific performances dates and times within those ranges, as not all performances take place on a daily basis. NOW PLAYING The following children's plays are taking place this month in the Chicago area. Scroll down to see other theater productions that are coming soon.

Featured Production: The Blue House April 5 - May 3 Thirteen-year-old Maricela lives in a vibrant Chicago neighborhood with a rich and sad history. Haunting dreams of strangers from another time lead Maricela to an abandoned lot where the mysterious Blue House once stood. Can Maricela uncover the house's dark secret and set the souls of its ghostly inhabitants free? Told in English and Spanish, this World Premiere work set during the 1919 Race Riots and present day celebrates the power of courage, love and forgiveness. Recommended for ages 8 and older. Adventure Stage Chicago at Vittum Theater, 1012 N. Noble St., Chicago. (773) 342-4141. www.adventurestage.org. Click here for more information and a coupon for $2 off!

African Children's Choir
April 5 2008
As seen on "American Idol," this incredible group of singers brings an exhilarating selection of African tunes accompanied by traditional instruments. The mission of the African Children's Choir is to raise awareness of destitute and orphaned children in Africa. Recommended for ages 6 and up. Price: $19-$40. The Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University. 1 University Parkway in south suburban University Park (708) 235-2222. www.centertickets.net.

Aladdin
April 12 through May 24
A musical drawn directly from the tales from 1001 Arabian Nights. “Aladdin” follows the rise of a poor Persian boy as he rises to the ranks of royalty and marries a beautiful princess with the help of a magical genie. However, the path to rank, riches and true love does not run smooth as an evil sorcerer attempts to block his every attempt to achieve true happiness. Northbrook Musical Theatre For Young Audiences, 3323 Walters Avenue, Northbrook. (847) 291-2367. www.northbrooktheatre.org.

The American Girls Revue
Ongoing
Don't miss this enchanting production. Written by Broadway playwrights, this lively show brings the stories of the American Girl characters to life through 10 original songs. Watching it will help girls discover the possibilities they each have...and be inspired to make this moment in history their own! Performance times vary; Call for information. Tickets $28.00 per person. For ages 6 and up. At American Girl Place, 111 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago. Call (877) 247-5223 to make your reservations.

Bitty Bear's Matinee: The Family Tree
Ongoing
Based on the book Bitty Bear's Family Album, this original musical performance tells the story of Bitty Bear and her friends (the Bitty Bunch) creating a gift for her parents on their anniversary. This delightful performances engages children with Bitty Bear, Bitty Kitty, and Bitty Puppy through audience participation. Performance times vary; call for information. Tickets are $15 per person. For ages 3 to 6. At American Girl Place, 111 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago, IL 60611. Call (877) 247-5223 to make your reservations.

Charlotte's Web
April 10-13
The Northwestern University Theatre & Interpretation Center presents Joseph Robinette's adaptation of Charlotte's Web, directed by Lynn Kelso. The Children's Literary Association has called this E.B. White classic "the best American Children's book in the past 200 years." The Zuckerman farm is the location for the story about a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte. As the story develops, Charlotte teaches us the true meaning of friendship and acceptance. Ticket prices are as follows: $20 general public; $18 seniors and Northwestern faculty/staff; $10 students. Barber Theater, 30 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. 847-491-7282. www.tic.northwestern.edu.

The Dirty Cowboy
February 21-April 13, 2008
That ol' cowboy really needs a bath! But once he is squeaky clean, will anyone recognize him? Even the loyal dog that stands guard over his clothes? A side- splitting tale of mistaken identity ensues, as cowboy and canine engage in a musical battle where the cowboy ends up stipped of more than just his dignity! This story by Chicago's Amy Timberlake is a fantastic new discovery, irreverently illustrated by Adam Rex and gleefully brought to life as a brand new musical by three veterans of the KidSeries stage. Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago. (773) 761-4477. www.lifelinetheatre.com.

The Giver - at DePaul's Merle Reskin Theatre
April 1 - May 24, 2008
Based on the Newberry Award-winning book, The Giver takes place in a seemingly perfect world without pain, war, fear or inequality. But when young Jonas is selected as the Receiver of Memories, he begins to learn the difficult truths about his existence and the possibilities that a life full of choices can bring. DePaul's Merle Reskin Theatre, 60 E. Balbo Drive (at Michigan), Chicago. (312) 922-1999. http://theatreschool.depaul.edu.

The Giver - at Apple Tree Theatre
April 8 - April 17, 2008
Take a journey through the eyes of 11 year-old Jonas. He lives in a futuristic world without disease, hunger, color, war and pain - it's a perfect place. Unlike others in the community, Jonas has unusual powers of perception. While he trains for his life work as "Receiver of Memory," he soon realizes that this world isn't as perfect as everyone thinks. Jonas receives the memories of the past, both good and bad - but what he does with them will surprise you. Theatre for Young Audiences at Apple Tree Theatre, 1850 Green Bay Rd., Highland Park. (847) 432-4335. http://appletreetheatre.com/.

Hana's Suitcase
April 11 - May 11 2008
Chicago Children's Theatre presents the Chicago premiere of Hana's Suitcase. In March 2000, a mysterious suitcase arrived at the Tokyo Holocaust Education Resource Center from Poland, bearing the name "Hana Brady." Based on real events, Hana's Suitcase depicts what happens when Japanese students and their teacher, Ms. Ishiko embark on a world wide journey to discover the story behind the name. Told through the eyes of children, Hana's Suitcase presents fresh insight into the Holocaust and its glorious moments of heroism. Storefront Theater, 66 E Randolph St., Chicago. (312) 742-8497. www.chicagochildrenstheatre.org.

Jack and the Beanstalk
April 24 - July 17
Join Jack and his dancing, Spanish Cow....Carmelita, as they try to save their village from a crazy Giant! You'll meet a goose that lays golden eggs, a beautiful singing Harp, and a wacky giant and his crazy wife! Stahl Family Theater at the St. Patrick Performing Arts Center, 5900 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. www.ChicagoKidsCompany.com.

James and the Giant Peach
February 2008 - April 2008
Emerald City Theatre believes your child should have a healthy diet. Which is why this year it is serving up a giant peach! Bring the entire family to enjoy this familiar and tasty tale about James Henry Trotter "the saddest and loneliest boy you could find" and how his life is turned upside-down when he spills a bag of magic crystals on his aunts' withered peach tree. Marvel as an exciting world of larger than life bugs come to life. For ages 3 and up. Emerald City Theatre Company at the Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100. www.emeraldcitytheatre.com.

Red Kite/Blue Moon
April 17 - May 8 2008
Chicago Children's Theatre presents Red Kite/Blue Moon a major educational theater installation created especially for young people challenged with autism at the Chicago Children's Museum. Using multi-sensory techniques including water, paper fans, music, colorful costumes, and video projections Red Kite/Blue Moon brings children onboard the Red Kite "ship" for a magical journey to the moon and stars and back. Performers are trained to respond sensitively and tailor the entire experience to each child. Caregivers can prepare children for the performance by visiting www.chicagochildrenstheatre.org and downloading a copy of the Red Kite/Blue Moon social story. Reservations required. For more information, call The Red Kite hotline at 312.321.6551 or contact Katie Hench at katieh@chicagochildrensmuseum.org.

Sleeping Beauty
February 6 - May 16, 2008
All the Fairies in town are invited to bestow their birthday gifts to the baby princess. But alas, one Fairy was not invited! Fairy Lotus crashes the baby party and bestows her own gift to the newborn princess. Fairy Lotus' gift states that on the Princess' 16th birthday, she will prick her finger on a spinning wheel and sleep for 100 years! But Fairy Rose counters that evil gift with her gift of love ... a handsome prince must kiss her awake to break the spell. For ages 2-12. Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St. (at Western), Chicago. 773-205-9600, www.ChicagoKidsCompany.com.

Seussical the Musical
March 6 - May 10, 2008
In this fantastical, magical musical, some of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters are loving brought to life with the Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie and all of the Whos of Whoville. These classic, colorful tales are brought together by Jojo, a young boy and "thinker of strange and wonderful thinks." Marriott Theatre In Lincolnshire, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. 847-634-0200. www.marriotttheatre.com.

That’s Weird, Grandma
Open run
A critically acclaimed assortment of scenes and songs adapted by the ensemble from Chicago public school students. After teaching creative writing in the CPS system, BOM’s ensemble of actors, comedians, musicians and playwrights selects and adapts some of the thousands of stories generated by children for stage presentation. The result has been an audience favorite – a show that is ‘safe’ for all ages, yet very much appreciated by an adult audience. “That’s Weird, Grandma” changes each week according to audience votes (switching 2-3 sketches in and out each performance), and each show runs about one hour. (312) 409-1954. The Neo-Futurarium, 5153 N. Ashland, Chicago. www.barrelofmonkeys.org

The Wizard of Oz
March 27 - May 17
When a tornado strikes her farm, Dorothy and Toto are transported over the rainbow and into the magical Land of Oz. There she meets a colorful assortment of Munchkins, the Good Witch Glinda, and the Wicked Witch of the West. As Dorothy sets out for the Emerald City in hopes of meeting the Wizard of Oz and finding her way back home, she is befriended by the Scarecrow who wants a brain, the Tinman who is looking for a heart, and the Cowardly Lion who is seeking courage. at The Drury Lane Oakbrook Theatre for Young Audiences, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace, IL. (630) 530-0111. www.drurylaneoakbrook.com

COMING SOON

Oliver!
May 8- 17th, 2008
Amidst a dingy and dank orphanage, Oliver proffers his bowl and asks for more food. This simple act leads him to being sold and on an incredible adventure. One of Charles Dickens' most classic tales comes alive onstage in a vibrant and exciting way. For ages 8 and up. At Timothy Christian Auditorium, 188 W. Butterfield Rd., Elmhurst. 847-516-2268. www.cytchicago.org.

Alice In Wonderland at CA Auditorium
May 8- 18th, 2008
This original production is Alice like you've never seen before- full of surprises and twists on the classic story. A 2005 Stephen Schwartz/ASCAP national award winner based upon Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass by Lewis Carroll, this modern adaptation is sure to fill audiences with wonder. For ages 5 and up. At CA Auditorium, 2500 Dowie Dr., Zion. 847-516-2268. www.cytchicago.org.

The Jungle Book
May 8th-May 18th, 2008
The Jungle Book is a daring tale of adventure based on Rudyard Kipling's exotic tale. The story follows a young boy named Mowgli who was raised in the jungles of India by a pack of wolves. Exciting songs, jungle rhythms and intriguing characters make the jungle come alive in a way like never before. For ages 5 and up. At Lake Zurich PAC, 300 Church St., Palatine. 847-516-2268. www.cytchicago.org.

Seussical Jr.
May 8th-May 18th, 2008
Explore the witty, wild and whimsical world of Dr. Seuss as you've never seen it before. Travel back to your childhood with Horton the Elephant to the Land of Whos and the Jungle of Nool and re-discover the delightfully zany characters created by one of the most beloved storytellers of all time. For ages 8 and up. At Huntley HS PAC, 13719 Harmony Rd. Huntley. 847-516-2268. www.cytchicago.org.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat
May 15th - June 1st, 2008
From the musical genius of Andrew Lloyd Webber comes the Old Testament tale of Joseph and his 11 brothers. A favored child among his brothers, Joseph's dreams take him from lowly slave to ruler of Egypt. Full of color, energy and incorporating dozens of musical styles, Joseph is sure to dazzle audiences young and old. For ages 5 and up. At Cutting Hall, 150 E. Wood St., Palatine. 847-516-2268. www.cytchicago.org.

Alice In Wonderland at Beverly Arts Center
May 21 through August 22, 2008
Chicago Kids Company Theatre for Children (CKC) presents a musical version of "Alice in Wonderland", a modernized re-telling of the classic fairy tale. Follow Alice down the Rabbit Hole into a land of wonder! Meet the Cheshire Cat, the March Hare, the Mad Hatter, Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, the Queen of Hearts, and many more. This musical version of the favorite fairy tale features six original songs, including a sing-along with Alice. The show runs one hour with no intermission, and is for kids aged 2 - 12. Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th St. (at Western), Chicago. (773) 205-9600. www.ChicagoKidsCompany.com .

Johnny Ten Bones
May 23 - June 1, 2008
Join Johnny Ten Bones as he leads you through an original montage of dreams and nightmares! Based on the real nocturnal musings of the multigenerational cast, this effervescent rock musical explores what goes bump in the night. Appropriate for ages 6 and up. Tickets are $10. 773-598-4549. Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago. www.gorillatango.com.

Disney's Aladdin
May 2008 - June 2008
Thinking about leaving Chicago for a quick vacation? Travel with Emerald City to Agrabah, City of Enchantment! All of your favorite characters are here in this stage adaptation of the Disney hit, including Aladdin, Jasmine, and of course, the Genie. Filled with magic, mayhem, and flying carpet rides, audiences' spirits will soar with excitement. This production will be filled with the kind of audience interaction parents and kids have to count on at Emerald City, allowing the audience to truly become a part of the story. Most of all, the tuneful, Academy award-winning score with songs including "A Whole New World" and "Friend Like Me" will certainly make this musical a favorite for many years to come! For ages 5 and up. Emerald City Theatre Company at the Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 935-6100. www.emeraldcitytheatre.com.

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile
June 13 - July 13, 2008
The Primm family is busily moving into their new house on East 88th Street, when suddenly they hear SWISH, SWASH, SPLASH, SWOOSH. A search reveals a crocodile in their bathtub! His name is Lyle, he only eats Turkish caviar, and he quickly becomes a treasured member of the family. This story has been read by loyal fans since 1962, and is now a new musical by the composer of Lifeline's "Click, Clack, Moo" and the adaptor of "Rikki Tikki Tavi." This production is appropriate for children ages five to ten, and runs about one hour with no intermission. Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago. 773-761-4477. www.lifelinetheatre.com.

How I Became a Pirate
June 16 - June 22, 2008
Arrr…shiver me timbers! Captain Braid Beard lets little Jeremy Jacob join his pirate crew - how fun! It's every kids dream not to eat their veggies or worry about manners and best of all, Jeremy gets to become a Pirate. But Jeremy doesn't realize that life at sea means no more reading, playing or getting tucked into bed - maybe pirate life isn't all it's cracked up to be. Should Jeremy walk the plank and go back home? Suggested Grades: K-3rd. Emerald City Theatre Company at The Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. (847) 577-2121. www.MetropolisArts.com.

Honk!
July 14 - July 19, 2008
It's springtime and momma and papa duck can't wait for their new brood - but there's an unusually large egg this year. It cracks open and out comes an ugly duckling that lets out a strange sounding…HONK! Ugly is ridiculed by the other animals and is almost driven into the eager mouth of the Tom Cat. Ugly escapes by the skin of his beak - but the adventure doesn't stop there. Come see what other journeys Ugly encounters and how he finds out he isn't really ugly, he's beautiful. The Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. (847) 577-2121. www.MetropolisArts.com.