Florida Rep Stages A MARK TWAIN STORYBOOK Today

Florida Rep's Lunchbox Theatre Series offers another chance to see A Mark Twain Story Book by Tom Poole. The story celebrates the works of one of America's most celebrated authors!

A Mark Twain Storybook plays today, Mar. 1 at 11am in the Historic Arcade Theatre, and the low $12 admission price includes the show, an interactive presentation from "The Banjo Man," and lunch from The Deli.

"A Mark Twain Storybook introduces a new generation to the absurdity, humor, and tongue-in-cheek commentary provided through the author's multitude of quirky characters," says Education Director, Claire K. Simpson, "We're all familiar with Tom and Huck, but meeting Jim Smiley, the Prince, the Pauper, and Jacob Blivens is a real treat. I'm so excited to be directing a show that combines so many personal loves: theatre, bluegrass music, and literature. Don't miss this charming and informative play that celebrates one of America's most beloved authors!"

Join a troupe of traveling players along the banks of the Mississippi for a wacky, bluegrass journey into the world Tom Sawyer, Huck Finn, the Prince, the Pauper - and so many more! Inspired by Vaudeville and accompanied by a banjo, audiences will stand amazed and amused at the antics of the Mark Twain Players. Prepare to have your funny bone plucked and your heartstrings strummed!

A Mark Twain Storybook features Florida Rep's acting intern company, Ashley Anderson, Harli Cooper, Jacob D. Guinn and Jake Scott-Hodes, as well as Education Associate, Allison Popieski. These young theatre artists have spent the season working in many different capacities, including performing several featured roles on the main stage. Cooper, Guinn and Scott-Hodes were most recently seen in this season's acclaimed production of Arsenic and Old Lace and Anderson, Guinn and Scott-Hodes shared the stage in My Three Angels.

Education Director, Claire K. Simpson, directs the play and is joined by an expert creative team including set designer Patrick Rizzotti, who has worked around the world for TV and theatre alike, as well as Roberta Malcolm as costume designer, Kate Smith as sound designer, Erin McCourt as scenic artist and Jenn Williams as the props artisan.

In addition to the show, audiences will also see an interactive performance from Chuck Flory as "The Banjo Man." A retired Lee County band director, Flory is a musician with a wide variety of musical experience including ukulele, clarinet and more. An exciting post-show workshop will take audiences on a toe-tapping, bluegrass journey through the world of banjo!

A Mark Twain Storybook plays in the Historic Arcade Theatre on Saturday, March 1 at 11am. Tickets are $12 and available online at www.floridarepeducation.org or by calling the box office at 239-332-4488. Advance reservation is required to receive a lunch. Non-lunch tickets are available at the door. For more information on field trip opportunities or booking a tour, call the Education Department at 239-332-4665 ext 41.

Florida Repertory Theatre is located on Bay Street between Jackson and Hendry in the Historic Arcade Theatre in the Fort Myers River District with ample free parking one hour before the show. Visit Florida Rep online at www.floridarep.org.