Red Branch Theatre Company to Stage Musical Adaptation of PETER RABBIT

Red Branch Theatre Company (RBTC) will conclude its 2015 season entitled Coming of Age with a world premiere adaptation Peter Rabbit. Rehearsals are currently underway for the family theatre production at Howard County's newest professional theatre.

New musical Peter Rabbit has hometown roots as it makes its world premiere on the Red Branch stage. With a book and score written by Howard County native and Red Branch Company Member, Dustin Merrell, this original musical adaptation brings many of Beatrix Potter's classic characters to dazzling new life. In Peter Rabbit, an adventure between friends, both old and new, teaches young audiences about the opportunities that come your way when you look at life with just "a little more hope."

"Bringing an original work to life is such a gift," states Janelle Broderick, the show's director. She continues, "So many times in theatre, directors and actors are re-creating something that has already been done. Characters are immortalized on Broadway stages, leaving little room for interpretation. With an original script and score, the cast of Peter Rabbit and I have the opportunity to let our imaginations run wild and bring nuances to these roles that are truly unique. What's more, we're working with really wonderful material. Dustin Merrell's script and score offer a wealth of personality from which we can draw inspiration; we're having a blast developing these characters and friendships. As a mother of three young children, it's especially meaningful to me to be a part of this process and to share a story that provides positive examples of friendship, forgiveness, hope, and courage."

Several special events and initiatives are set to take place in conjunction with the upcoming production. Parents' Night Out PJ Parties have been a community favorite at Red Branch for years. Parents can drop children off at the theatre for an evening of fun supervised by Drama Learning Center's engaging staff of teaching artists. After watching the show, students have the opportunity to meet the cast and then participate in themed activities until up to 11 PM. Santa Sightings will take place following the matinee performances on December 12th and 13th. The cast of Peter Rabbit will also be performing selections from the production and reading to children at all branches of the Howard County Public Library System throughout November and December.

In an effort to continue its mission of providing quality, professional theatre to all audiences, the 2 PM performance on Saturday, December 19th will be American Sign Language-interpreted. A matching campaign is also underway to bring under-served families to see Peter Rabbit at no cost. A member of RBTC's Board of Director's has pledged up to $500 for each dollar raised toward this initiative. Donations can be made online at http://www.redbranchtheatrecompany.com/peter-rabbit. Red Branch Theatre Company's 501©3 non-profit status is pending, and all donations made to this campaign will be tax-deductible.