Robert Louis Stevenson's TREASURE ISLAND Sails to the Long Beach Playhouse

On April 8, the Long Beach Playhouse presents Treasure Island, the beloved classic by Robert Louis Stevenson. For many of us, most of what we know about pirates, buried treasure and adventure came from Stevenson's novel. In 2005, Phil Willmott re-imagined the story with 21st century sensibilities and the belief that women make outstanding pirates. It is his version - which fully retains the swashbuckling story and spirit of the original - that will delight Playhouse audiences this season.

At its heart, the story is a brilliant yarn of piracy on the tropical seas. At the center of the tale are Jim Hawkins, a 14-year-old boy who longs for adventure, and the infamous Long John Silver, a complex study of good and evil. The story of the unscrupulous buccaneer-rogue and young Jim wins the heart of anyone who has ever longed for romance, treasure and adventure.

Directing The Playhouse production of Treasure Island is Dale Jones. Dale has both acted in and directed shows in the Mainstage and Studio. "The last show Dale directed for us was Psycho Beach Party in August 2015," said Playhouse Executive Director, Madison Mooney. "He has a knack for physical action on stage. Treasure Island is a great showcase for Dale."

Jones was inspired to become a reader when his grandfather gave him his own childhood copy of the book with the original Howard Pyle illustrations. "My grandfather's well-read book set my imagination afire with dreams of pirate gold. I was mesmerized from page one to the end and have kept on reading ever since.

"Pirates, whether Jack Sparrow or Long John Silver, spur young imaginations with their swashbuckling, walking the plank and sailing the Spanish Main-all in play, of course!"

Jones takes particular delight in audience engagement and his show encourages viewers to sing along with the merry band of pirates.

"I'm really proud of what we've accomplished with this show. Matt Franta is back as our fight choreographer. This is his sixth time to work with us. He's a great teacher and collaborator. His experience with stunts and movement really make a difference in how actors move through space," said Artistic Director, Sean Gray.

"Come see the show, it's wonderful. It doesn't matter if a person is 7 or 107, they'll have a great time, it's a really fun show," said Mooney.

Treasure Island opens April 8 and runs through May 6.

-Pay what you can Thursday April 6- community members are invited for whatever they can afford

-Two for One Preview Friday April 7 - Tickets are $10.00

-Opening Night Champagne Reception with cast on April 8- Tickets are $27.00

Friday: Adults are $20.00, Seniors $18.00, and Students $14.00. Saturday and Sunday: Adults are $24.00, Seniors $21.00, and Students $14.00. Tickets are available at www.lbplayhouse.org, or by calling 562-494-1014, option 1.

Long Beach Playhouse is located at 5021 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach, CA, 90804, right across from the Long Beach Recreation golf course. The Playhouse is community-supported theatre with programs and events that cut across age, gender, ethnic, and cultural boundaries.

Performances are 8 p.m. Friday, and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. The box office is open Wednesday-Saturday from 3:00-8:00 pm and Sundays from 1:00-2:00 pm on scheduled matinees.