Brer Rabbit and Friends breathes life into the stories of Brer Rabbit.

Stage shows like movies are sometimes the first places that expose children to literary works. (A Christmas Carol comes to mind as an example. So does the musical Les Miserables which is based on the Victor Hugo book of the same name. ) Seeing a book or story based on a written work acted out onstage adds a certain level of magic to the work and hopefully encourages children to go and read the work themselves. A couple of pieces of literature are coming to the stage in Atlanta. Because of their unique stage direction, I believe they are worth taking the kids to see. Check out these recommendations:

Brer Rabbit and Friends April 11-May 26, 2013 Center for Puppetry Arts Tues-Fri: 10am & 11:30am Sat: 12pm & 2pm Sun: 1pm & 3pm

Live music and puppets inject energy and fun to the stories of Brer Rabbit. Who is the swiftest? The strongest? The smartest? The puppets compete for these titles by spinning their tales. Come early and take part in the hands on build a puppet workshop.

Zorro April 3 – May 5, 2013 Alliance Theatre
Tuesday through Thursday at 7:30pm Fridays at 8 pm, Saturdays at 2:30 pm and 8 pm Sundays at 2:30 pm and 7:30pm

The story of Zorro adapted from the serialized novel The Curse of Capistrano, is brought to the stage with special effects, sword fighting, stunts, magic and beautiful flamenco dancing. The music of the Gypsy Kings fuel the score so expect this production to be electrifying.

Cast members rehearse the flamenco for the upcoming production of Zorro.

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