FROG AND TOAD Plays at Jorgensen, 3/28

I'd like to sing a little ode, about my good friend Toad," croaks one of the title characters in this all-new musical production. Two mismatched friends navigate the seasons of life together as Arnold Lobel's beloved characters hop from the page to the stage at Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday, March 28 at 1 and 3 pm as part of the Jorgensen Children's Series, supported by Bank of America.

And to add to the enjoyment, Jorgensen has planned an hour of froggy fun before each performance. Find out why it's keen to be green - with games, activities and face-painting for all!

A hit on Broadway, Robert and Willie Reale's musical A Year With Frog and Toad was nominated for 3 Tony Awards - including Best Musical. The New York Times calls this Theatre For Young Audiences version a "bright, bouncy, altogether lovable show, packed with talent."

With input from Mr. Lobel's daughter, Adrianne Lobel, the stage musical remains true to the spirit of the original stories as it follows two great friends, the cheerful and popular Frog and the rather grumpy, impatient Toad through four fun-filled seasons of the year. The endearing story, set in a miniaturized world and animated by a truly hummable score, introduces a number of woodland friends and gives a new meaning to the term "snail mail."

In the spring, the whole world is alive with tuneful activity. After waking from hibernation, Frog and Toad plant a garden, swim, fly a kite, make (and eat) cookies, rake leaves and go sledding. They learn life's lessons along the way, including a most important one about friendship. There are lots of insights for both children and adults in this exploration of what makes each of us different and very, very special. The Minneapolis Star Tribune says this "spiffy, snazzy, clever little musical...is delightful."

Join Frog and Toad at Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts, located at 2132 Hillside Road on the UConn campus in Storrs. Tickets for adults are $13; children $11. For tickets and information, call the Box Office, Monday through Friday, 11 am to 5 pm, at 860.486.4226, or order online at www.jorgensen.uconn.edu. Convenient free parking is available across the street in the North Garage.