Wallis Annenburg Center for the Performing Arts Unveils New Season- Theatre for Young Audiences

The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts (aka "The Wallis") is proud to unveil five dynamic theatrical experiences as part of its "Theater for Young Audiences" series. The 2014-2015 season includes works from Scotland, the United States, France, Germany and England.

Kicking off the season is THE MAN WHO PLANTED TREES, based on French author Jean Giono's 1953 environment-themed classic. The program comes from Puppet State Theatre Company of Scotland and runs October 7-19(recommended for ages 7 and above).

On October 19 comes the Grammy award-winning DAN ZANES AND FRIENDS, whose innovative, modern and multicultural music integrates the unique spirit of American, West Indian and English folk music with the inspiration of early soul and rock-and-roll (recommended for audiences of all ages).

Following January 9-18 is THE QUEEN OF COLORS, based on the renowned children's book by Jutta Bauer. The program, which makes its West Coast debut at The Wallis, comes from Compagnie Les Voisins from France and Germany (recommended for ages 4-7).

Running February 25-March 1 is POTTED POTTER: THE UNAUTHORIZED POTTER EXPERIENCE - A Parody by Dan and Jeff. Playing to sold-out houses all over the world, this fantastically funny show takes on the ultimate challenge of condensing all seven Harry Potter books (and a real life game of Quidditch) into 70 hilarious minutes. Even if you don't know the difference between a Horcrux and a Hufflepuff, POTTED POTTER will make you roar with laughter. This brilliant family entertainment is perfect for ages six to Dumbledore (who is very old indeed).

Winner of the Barclays Stage Award for Best Show for Children and Young People, LIFEBOAT, from Catherine Wheels Theatre Company of Scotland, plays March 10-22 (last season, The Wallis presented Catherine Wheels' White to great acclaim and sold-out audiences). Recommended for ages 9 and up.

The Wallis' Managing Director, Tania Camargo, said, "Time and again, research has shown the positive impact that arts education has on children's academic achievement, social and emotional development, and civic engagement, as well as fostering equitable opportunity. This year, The Wallis is proud to further its commitment to education by providing tickets and transportation to 'Theater for Young Audiences' productions to 6,500 students, many of them from underserved Los Angeles schools and communities. We believe all students deserve to experience world-class performances in theater, dance and music, and are gratified to continue to offer this valuable program."

Patricia Wolff, interim artistic director, said, "We designed 'Theater for Young Audiences' to transcend the traditional definition of 'children's theater' and were dedicated to crafting a season that would be compelling to both young audiences and adults alike. Our first show, 'The Man Who Planted Trees,' imparts a critical environmental message as it entertains, while the Grammy Award-winning Dan Zanes will have everyone who listens enthralled and on their feet. These are just two examples of a rich and joyous season of which we are extremely proud."

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