Lifeline Theatre to Open KidSeries with THE VELVETEEN RABBIT, 10/18-11/23

Lifeline Theatre opens its 2014-15 KidSeries season with The Velveteen Rabbit, based on the beloved classic by Margery Williams, adapted by Lifeline Theatre ensemble member Elise Kauzlaric, and directed by Lifeline Theatre ensemble member Amanda Link. One Christmas morning, a shy stuffed bunny enters the world of a young boy's nursery. Initially ignored in favor of more modern toys, she waits patiently to be noticed, wondering if she will ever be loved like the others. When the wise old Skin Horse reveals the majesty and mystery of what it means to become real, the Velveteen Rabbit begins an odyssey of the heart to make a lasting connection with her boy that will endure for always. Return to a simpler time with this heartwarming story about the transformative power of love. This production is recommended for children ages five and up (children under two not permitted), and runs one hour with no intermission. The book will be on sale in the lobby.

The Velveteen Rabbit runs Saturday, Oct. 18 - Sunday, Nov. 23 at Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave. Press opening is Sunday, Oct. 19 at 1 p.m. Regular performance times are Saturdays and Sundays at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. (Previews are Saturday, Oct. 18 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; and Sunday, Oct. 19 at 11 a.m.) Ticket prices are $15 and may be purchased at the Lifeline Theatre Box Office, 773.761.4477, or by visiting www.lifelinetheatre.com.

PLUS: Join Lifeline Theatre every Saturday and Sunday at 12 p.m. during the run of The Velveteen Rabbit (following the 11 a.m. show, or before the 1 p.m. show) for our Stories Come Alive! Hour. Children will get up close and personal with the book behind the play with an interactive storytelling session and on-your-feet theatre games. The cost is only $5 per child. Parents are welcome to join the fun, though not required to stay. Contact Lifeline Theatre at 773-761-4477 for more information.

The complete cast and production team for The Velveteen Rabbit includes:

CAST: Guest artists Christopher Acevedo (The Boy), Jamie Cahill (Velveteen Rabbit), Mykele Callicutt (Skin Horse), Jenna Schoppe (Nana/Toy Soldier), and Danielle Davis (Model Boat/Doctor). With understudies Shannon Nishi and Andres Enriquez.

CREW: Lifeline Theatre ensemble members Elise Kauzlaric (Adaptor) and Amanda Link (Director); with guest artists Benjamin W. Dawson (Production Manager), Diane D. Fairchild (Lighting Designer), Amanda Hermann (Properties Designer), Anthony Ingram (Sound Designer), John Kelly (Master Electrician), Michelle Lilly (Scenic Designer), Joe Schermoly (Technical Director), Jessica Kuehnau Wardell (Costume Designer), and Ellen Willett (Stage Manager).

Lifeline Theatre KidSeries presents The Velveteen Rabbit, Saturday, Oct. 18 - Sunday, Nov. 23 at Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave. Press opening is Sunday, Oct. 19 at 1 p.m. Regular performance times are Saturdays and Sundays at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. (Previews are Saturday, Oct. 18 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; and Sunday, Oct. 19 at 11 a.m.) Ticket prices are $15 and may be purchased at the Lifeline Theatre Box Office, 773.761.4477, or by visiting www.lifelinetheatre.com.

Lifeline Theatre also offers "Name Your Price" tickets a half-hour before the show (subject to availability), group rates and other discounts available upon request. A party room is available for full-service birthday and special event parties. Free parking is available at the designated lot west of the theatre (NE corner of Morse and Ravenswood) with free shuttle service before and after the show. Street parking is also available and Lifeline Theatre is handicapped and CTA accessible (Red Line Morse stop/busses).

Now in its 32nd season, Lifeline Theatre is driven by a passion for story. Our ensemble process supports writers in the development of literary adaptations and new work, and our theatrical and educational programs foster a lifelong engagement with literature and the arts. A cultural anchor of Rogers Park, we are committed to deepening our connection to an ever-growing family of artists and audiences, both near and far. Lifeline Theatre -- Big Stories, Up Close.