The Barter Players' SLEEPING BEAUTY Begins Tomorrow

Who can resist a tale of magic, revenge, and courage such as "Sleeping Beauty"? This timeless story has been cherished for years and is about to come alive on stage.

The Barter Players present "Sleeping Beauty," the classic princess fairy tale beginning July 22 and playing through August 9 on Barter Stage II. This performance is adapted from the Brothers Grim tale by Catherine Bush and is appropriate for all ages.

The King Demetrius and Queen Miranda have always wanted a baby, and their wish is granted when Queen Miranda asks the three-headed Sage, Carabosse. Carabosse agrees to grant this wish if she could come to the baby's christening. Carabosse arrives but the King shuns her away. Carabosse is mortified, and leaves a curse on Princess Aurora that on her sixteenth birthday she will prick her finger on the needle of a spinning wheel. This will cause her to go into a deep sleep, only to be awoken by true love's kiss.

Katy Brown, director of "Sleeping Beauty" states, "We love that, in this play, Sleeping Beauty is a princess who knows how to rescue others instead of only waiting around to get rescued. She's got spunk." Brown also says that audience members are welcome to come in costume.

The Barter Players are a group of professional artists who perform world-class theatre for young audiences. The troupe presents high-energy and original productions that capture the imagination of today's youth while providing the best in the classic literature and beloved story adaptations.

"Sleeping Beauty" is sponsored by Berry Home Centers, Inc. The Barter Players' season sponsor is Alpha Natural Resources, and the season media sponsors are Blue Ridge PBS and abc 19 WKPT.

For more information on the Barter Players visit bartertheatre.com or call (276) 628-3991.