GALAPAGOS GEORGE, THE LITTLE TORTOISE THAT COULD Returns To Center For Puppetry Arts

Based on the true story of Lonesome George, explorers will journey to the far-off Galapagos Islands for the uplifting eco-fable tale of the not-so-little tortoise and the islands he called home. Galapagos George, the Little Tortoise That Could features vibrant appearances from marine Iguanas, Sally Lightfoot crabs, blue-footed booby birds, sea lions and other remarkable animals that inhabit the archipelago.

Playing at Center for Puppetry Arts March 19-31, the show is presented by puppeteer Heidi Rugg of Richmond's Barefoot Puppets and features rod, shadow and hand puppetry!

As part of the Center's ASD initiative, guests are invited to enjoy sensory-friendly programming on Sunday, March 24 from noon to 5 p.m. This special afternoon will allow guests with autism sensory disorder to experience the performance, Create-A-Puppet Workshop, and the Worlds of Puppetry Museum in a comfortable and safe setting with staff members who have been trained in interactions with patrons with ASD.

Along with a quiet zone in the lobby, several performance alterations will be made, including: theater lights dimmed down (but not out); consistent sound levels and lower volume of show soundtrack; freedom for children to talk during the show and leave their seats, if necessary; and permission to bring quiet, contained snacks and beverages. Create-A-Puppet Workshop classrooms will be brighter, quieter and feature less-messy puppet building materials and slightly simplified puppet designs. In the Worlds of Puppetry Museum, lighting will be adjusted and specialized educational activities (such as touch tables and guided storytelling) will be integrated. Fidget toys and sound-reducing headphones will also be available.

For more information about Barefoot Puppets, visit www.barefootpuppets.com