Stages Theatre's SIDEWAYS STORIES FROM WAYSIDE SCHOOL Opens Today

"Sideways Stories from Wayside School" opens today, Oct. 18 at Stages Theatre Company (STC) with limited availability for weekday matinees. Written by Louis Sachar, this book is an appropriate addition to Stages Theatre Company's 30th anniversary season where "there are thirty stories from the thirtieth story of Wayside School." In the story, the builder makes a mistake and turns the plans on their side. That's why Wayside School is thirty stories high with one classroom on each level.

Adapted by John Olive, this production provides a wacky world of fun for ages 7 and up in the Hopkins Jaycees Studio. "After watching the designer run I would like you to be aware that this production is not appropriate for all ages as previously advertised and would recommend it for ages 7 and up. Please take a look at the books and stories, and make a decision that is right for your child," says Artistic Director Sandy Boren-Barrett.

Audiences will step into a world at Wayside School that takes them back into time. "The play is set in the early 1980s. That's because I was in middle school in the '80s. I remember it as a crazy, wacky and dramatic time. Also the '80s is not something you see a lot on stage yet and it felt like a new direction for me. Bottom line - I thought it would be fun, silly and more than a little embarrassing at times - just like middle school," says Director Jon Ferguson.

"Sideways Stories from Wayside School" opens today, Oct. 18 and ends Nov. 10, with a run time of 70 minutes and is suitable for ages 7 and up. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.stagestheatre.org for performance dates and times, or by calling the Box Office at (952) 979-1111, Tuesdaythrough Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for children (ages 5 to 17) and seniors (60+). Lap passes are available for free (ages 0 to 2) and $5 (ages 3 to 4).

Stages Theatre Company was founded in 1984 and since then has grown to become one of the largest professional theatres for young audiences in the country. We engage young artists with themes relevant to their lives and involve them in creating magical works featuring young people in meaningful roles. Through theatrical productions, workshops, conservatory classes and other outreach programs, Stages Theatre Company annually serves more than 130,000 young people and their families.

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