The Pied Piper of Hamelin is Coming to Barter Stage II

"The Pied Piper of Hamelin" is a classic fairy tale that has been told and retold for more than 500 years. Now, Catherine Gray has written a creative version for The Barter Players, the children's company of Barter Theatre, while still keeping true to its tradition. The mystical tale will be performed May 28-June 22 at Barter Stage II.

To honor Barter's beginnings in the Great Depression when patrons traded food for tickets, the theatre presents three Barter Days in June. Barter Day for "The Pied Piper" is Saturday, June 8 for the 10am performance. Bring non-perishable food to barter for tickets. All proceeds will go to Feeding America: Southwest Virginia.

In Hamelin, Germany, there stands an old, old church. In this church there is a staiNed Glass window depicting the town's children, led by a piper. The glass window tells a story of a time when rats were overrunning the town of Hamelin. Nothing was safe. That is until the mayor's daughter found the Pied Piper who could charm rats with his musical piping.

The Barter Players' artistic director, Katy Brown, says, "This show is an exciting exploration of imagination. The Players become different characters in the blink of an eye." The Players meet and greet the audience before each performance and talkbacks are available with prior arrangement.

Tickets are $12, group rates are available. For more information visit BarterTheatre.com or call 276.628.3991.