Children's books Hit Stage at KIDSFEST in Manila, 1/17-26

Well-loved children's books "The Gruffalo's Child" and "We're Going on a Bear Hunt" are set to hit the local theatre scene via ''KidsFest,' a children's theatre festival slated on Jan. 17 to 26, 2014, at the Carlos P. Romulo Auditorium, RCBC Plaza, Makati.

International theatre Production Company ABA Productions and co-presenter The Little Gym bring KidsFest to Manila for the very first time, showcasing two Live Theatre adaptations of bestselling literary works performed by professional theatre groups from London's West End.

"Following the success of 'The Gruffalo' in Manila earlier this year, we are delighted to bring KidsFest to Manila and give the Filipino audience the chance to experience the magic of the stage live. KidsFest has grown to be an important children's cultural event in Asia, and now it's Manila's turn to be part of it," says Matthew Gregory, executive producer of ABA Productions, which is dedicated to creating and promoting a wide variety of performance styles from all corners of the world.

"We're Going on a Bear Hunt," adapted from the award-winning picture book written by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury, is brought vividly to the stage in a show directed by Sally Cookson, set to a versatile, lively score by Benji Bower. Join an intrepid family on their quest to find a bear, in a repertoire of catchy songs, interactive scenes, and plenty of hands-on adventure - plus a few special surprises!

Meanwhile, the beloved Gruffalo returns in "The Gruffalo's Child," where the Gruffalo's child ignores her father's warning and tiptoes out into the snowy night in search of the legendary Big Bad Mouse. Tall Stories Theatre Company returns to bring to life Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's award-winning sequel to life in a magical, musical adaptation.

On top of the performances, KidsFest+ adds an extra layer of interactivity to the festivities, as for selected shows dates and times, the audience can meet the talented people behind the show up close in special meet and greet sessions.

KidsFest Manila will donate the equivalent of one performance (more than 400 seats) to young people displaced and affected by typhoon Yolanda, as well as financial contributions and much-needed items to the ongoing relief operations.

Tickets are available via Ticket World at P2200 (VIP), P1800 (A Res); P1800 (B Res); P1300 (C Res); and P900 (D Res). Discounts are available for Visa Card members (10% discount for any 1 show and 15% discount for two shows in one transaction), and 10% discount applies to purchases of 2 shows by any payment method.

For more details, log on to www.kidsfest.com.ph.