Akvavit Theatre's BLUE PLANET Opens Tonight at the Storefront Theater

The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) has announced Akvavit Theatre's U.S. premiere of Blue Planet based on the children's book The Story of the Blue Planet by Icelandic author Andri Snær Magnason. The performances at the Storefront Theater (66 E. Randolph) are tonight, February 13 through March 15 at the Storefront Theater, Thursdays through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. with show previews February 10 through 12 at 7:30 p.m.

Andri Snær Magnason is an Icelandic writer, born in Reykjavik and his book, The Story of the Blue Planet, was the first children's book to receive the Icelandic Literary Prize and has been published or performed in 26 countries. The play based on the story has been presented in Finland, Switzerland, Iceland, Poland, Canada and most recently in Iran. The Chicago performance will be the first in the United States.

The family-friendly, "integrated theater" piece from Akvavit Theatre Company is directed by WM Bullion. Akvavit Theatre is a new voice on the Chicago theater scene inspired by Nordic culture; it's presentation of Blue Planet by will entertain both adults and children alike. The tale begins with best friends Hulda and Brimir who live on a planet much like Earth, populated only by children. They live a simple but ideal life. When they meet an adult, the mysterious Jolly-Goodday, they are promised a life of greater joy and even more spectacular fun. But, what are they willing to trade for an immediate reward? The exuberance of Peter Pan, the wonder of the myth of Icarus, mixed with an eco-conscious message, Blue Planet is a family-friendly and lively integrated theatrical experience that is sure to illuminate, entertain and inspire.

Blue Planet is presented by Akvavit Theatre company in partnership with the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE). DCASE presents ongoing performing arts series that showcases both emerging and established music, theater, dance and multi-disciplinary artists at the Chicago Cultural Center, Storefront Theater and other venues. For information on this and all productions presented by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, visit our website: cityofchicago.org/dcase and join us on Facebook and Twitter @ChicagoDCASE.

The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) is dedicated to enriching Chicago's artistic vitality and cultural vibrancy. This includes fostering the development of Chicago's non-profit arts sector, independent working artists and for-profit arts businesses; providing a framework to guide the City's future cultural and economic growth, via the 2012 Chicago Cultural Plan; marketing the City's cultural assets to a worldwide audience; and presenting high-quality, free and affordable cultural programs for residents and visitors.