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For our new 2008 - 2009 National Tour
brochure in pdf format, click here.For our 2007- 2008 brochure, click here.
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To book a performance in your venue
Call Eric Williams in Richmond at 1-800-235-8687
or
We Set the Stage for Learning
Theatre IV is a nonprofit, professional theatre
For over 30 years, Theatre IV has been dedicated to the creation of professional, exciting and innovative theatrical productions for young audiences.Building Tomorrow's Audiences Today
Theatre IV will help you bring young audiences to your venue. The young
audiences of today are the patrons of tomorrow. They help build a stable future while bringing in much needed revenue today. Get the youth of your community used to coming to your venue. You will instill in them a lifelong habit of participating in the arts.Create or Enhance Your Series
Our plays are diverse and will be the cornerstone of you Young Audience Series. From Snow White to Harriet Tubman, from Stuart Little to A Christmas Carol to The True Story of Pocahontas, we can provide just what your audiences need.Education at the Heart of the Art
Our plays are entertaining while introducing the audience to the books, people, and events being studied in schools. This is a natural extension of their educational experience. We provide on-line study guides that teachers can
access themselves saving you time and money.Give Them a Memory for a Lifetime
Field trips are special in the life of a child. Give your community the gift of live theatre and an experience they will never forget.Theatre IV and Community – Hand-in-Hand
At Theatre IV we strive to provide programs that will enhance and enrich our sense of community. Our Boards of Trustees, staff and artistic family are representative of the community at-large. We create and implement programs and initiatives in response to community input.Invite your Local, State and National Politician
Show off all you do for your community by inviting your elected representatives to our shows. They are important links to government funding sources. Let them know that the arts are vital to the community and the nation and are a key component of educating all our children.
Fall 2007 Productions
The Song of Mulan (K – 5)
Book, Music and Lyrics by Paul Deiss
When Mulan learns that her ailing father is drafted into Khan’s army, she protects him by serving in his place. Disguised as a man, she risks everything to maintain family honor and earn the love of her nation. This noble Chinese folk tale features an extraordinary heroine, authentic costumes and props, and lovely songs. It also provides an educational journey to the heart and soul of an extraordinary ancient civilization.
Tales as Tall as the Sky (K – 5)
by Cliff Todd
Reading books is more than fun – it’s powerful! Three children bring characters from American tall tales to vibrant life through the magic of their imaginations by exploring the wild and adventurous stories of Pecos Bill and John Henry. Their enthusiasm leads the children to invent a tall tale of their very own with a new, modern twist. Your students will be amazed at what adventures reading can lead to!
The True Story of Pocahontas (K – 5)
by Peter Howard
Co-produced by the Virginia Historical Society
Every school-age child knows the name Pocahontas and yet her true story is shrouded in myth. Our musical play emphasizes historical facts as we discover the real Pocahontas as she grows from a young, playful girl helping the Jamestown colonists survive to the young woman who carries her message of peace, harmony, and mutual co-operation across the Atlantic to the court of the mighty King of England.
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (K – 5)
Based on the classic story by Washington Irving
Book, Music, and Lyrics by Paul Deiss
No autumn is complete without the fun of telling favorite stories and Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, which has been at the top of the list of great stories for almost 200 hundred years! Thrill and perhaps chill your audience (although it’s not too scary for little ones) with Theatre IV’s masterful musical retelling of this lively legend.
Jack and the Beanstalk (K – 5)
Book and lyrics by Douglas Jones
Music by Ron Barnett
This lively musical recounts the classic exploits of a young boy who trades the family cow for three magic beans. Tossed out the window by his disappointed mother, the beans grow into a giant beanstalk that leads to fabulous treasures, an ill-tempered giant and more adventures than you can shake a stalk at.Santa’s Enchanted Workshop
Book, music and lyrics by Richard Giersch; Additional lyrics by Bruce Craig Miller
Stanley and his baby sister, SuSu, don’t know whether or not to believe in Santa Claus, so they set out for the North Pole. Trapped in a blizzard, they wind up in a dilapidated gas station run by a mysterious old man named Nick. Could this be Santa’s Enchanted Workshop? Imagination is the key in this joyous holiday musical, which features a singing robot, a dancing rag doll and one of the silliest villains you’ll ever see! Family Ties, Character Development Language.
Late November - December, 2007
Contact Eric Williams at 1-800-235-8687
orBecause titles, dates, and times are subject to change,
please contact Theatre IV for Up-To-The-Minute information.
Spring 2008 Productions
The Ugly Duckling (K – 5)
Inspired by Hans Christian Anderson’s Fable
In this all singing, all dancing, all delightful new musical, Theatre IV combines “The Ugly Duckling” fable with tales of other lands by introducing our familiar feathered friend to a Burmese mole that hates dirt and an Inuit bald eagle with a full head of hair! These three “misfit” heroes work together to earn their home on the King’s estate and find the self-confidence that only friendship and accomplishment can provide.
Huck and Tom and the Mighty Mississippi (Gr. 2 - 8)
Book by Peter Howard,
Music and Lyrics by Ron Barnett
The greatest young adventurers in American literature spring to life in this foot-stompin’ musical based on the novels of Mark Twain. Join Huckleberry, Tom, Jim, Becky Thatcher, Aunt Polly and all the residents and rapscallions of Hannibal, MO as they explore the majestic river that defines their lives, tests their souls, and carries their spirit into the heart of America.
The Frog Prince (K – 5)
Book and Lyrics by Douglas Jones,
Music by Ron Barnett
When a spoiled princess drops her golden ball into a well, a noble frog retrieves it in exchange for her promise of friendship. The princess breaks her promise, and must face the music in this colorful, funny, faithful adaptation of the classic folk story first recorded by the Brothers Grimm. Our beautiful production of The Frog Prince showcases an amphibian ensemble created by internationally acclaimed puppet master Terry Snyder.
Buffalo Soldier (Gr 3 – Adult)
Book, Music and Lyrics by Bruce Craig Miller
Co-produced by the Virginia Historical Society
Based on the true story of our nation’s longest-surviving Buffalo Soldier and veteran of the Spanish-American War, this dramatic play with music tells the heroic story of the brave soldiers of the 9th and 10th Cavalries, who served our country well with little of the recognition they deserved. A Best American Plays for Young Audiences selection this play was performed at the Pentagon in honor of African American History Month.
Stone Soup (K – 5)
Theatre IV Premiere!
Book, Music and Lyrics by Paul Deiss and Holly Timberline
When Peter, a hungry sailor has no luck getting a free meal from the stingy citizens of our tiny village, he turns the table by inviting the villagers to enjoy his famous delicious Stone Soup. He promises to provide the main ingredient if the villagers will provide all the other ingredients. Join Peter and his trusty parrot, Admiral, as they teach the villagers a lesson in friendship and sharing in this heart warming musical retelling of the classic folktale.
Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad
(Gr 3 – 8)
Book and Lyrics by Douglas Jones
Music by Ron Barnett
This stirring drama with music is a classic tribute to the great American who freed herself and hundreds of her people from the bonds of slavery. Her courage helped to change the world. Share her adventurous life with your students in this accurate and deeply moving musical history lesson.
“I Have a Dream”—The Life and Times of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (Gr 3 – Adult)
by Bruce Craig Miller
This compelling dramatization of the life and times of one of the most influential and charismatic leaders of the “American Century” and the Civil Rights movement will inspire your students as they experience this great leader’s struggle and his dream of lifting “our nation from the quicksand of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood.
A great success, both in quality and educational value of the
performance and the entertainment provided for the students…
generating much creative imagination.
~ Fine Arts Coordinator, Charlottesville Public Schools, Charlottesville,
VA
Contact Eric
Williams at 1-800-235-8687
or
Because titles, dates,
and times are subject to change,
please contact Theatre IV for Up-To-The-Minute information.
Fall 2008
James Madison
The year is 1814. President James Madison, Father of our Constitution and author of the Bill of Rights, surveys the ruin of his capitol still smoldering with the fires set by the British. As he faces one of his darkest days, his First Lady, Dolley, Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, and a bevy of colorful characters from his past come to his rescue. Join us for a celebration of the life of this brilliant Founding Father students won't soon forget. (3 - 8)Ancient Egypt
Inside a tiny case, two children find an ancient amulet in a neighbor's attic. Before her disappearance, Gama Harriet had been a famed Egyptologist. But what is the meaning of the hieroglyphs inscribed on the amulet, or the scribbled warnings found in Harriet's journal? Before they know it, the children are magically transported back to ancient Egypt in 620 BC where they meet Sematawy- tefnakht, a scribe to King Psamtik I. With his guidance, our two heroes unravel their mystery while your audience learns fascinating facts about one of the world's most amazing cultures. Thrills, dazzling beauty and historic fact combine in this novel melding of childfriendly mystery and accurate cultural exploration. (K - 5)The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
By Paul Deiss
Join Ichabod Crane, Brom Bones, the lovely Katrina Van Tassel, the residents of Tarry Town and oh yes, the Headless Horseman, as they live the story made famous by the legend. This autumnal classic is faithful to the original story written by Washington Irving in 1819 and will thrill and perhaps chill (but not too scary) your audiences. No fall is complete without the telling of stories and our retelling of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow is one story you won't want to miss. Folk Tales, Language, Literary Classic, Reading, History (K - 5)
September - November 2008Stone Soup
By Paul Deiss
Peter, a hungry sailor has no luck getting a free meal from the stingy citizens of our tiny village. He decides to turn the table, and invites the villagers to enjoy his Stone soup, for which he provides the stone and the villagers provide all the good stuff. Join Peter and his trusty parrot Admiral as they teach the villagers about friendship and sharing in this musical retelling of the classic folktale. Art, Family Ties, Folk Tale, Language, Literary Classic, Music, Puppets, Reading, Character Development (K - 5)
September - November 2008The Boy Who Cried Wolf
By Bruce Craig Miller
Join us on this musical retelling of this timeless tale. Follow along with our "Boy" as he learns a life lesson of telling the truth and finding out that there are consequences of "Crying Wolf." Folk Tales, Music, Citizenship, Character Development, Reading (K - 5)
September - November 2008Beatrix Potter's "The Tailor of Gloucester"
Book, Music and Lyrics by Paul Deiss
What a treat it is to discover a holiday classic by Beatrix Potter. When a poppycock mayor orders a cherry-colored coat for his Christmas wedding, the poor Tailor of Gloucester works his fingers to the bone. All goes well until the tailor realizes he lacks the piece of twisted silk needed to sew on the final button. He gives his last coin to Simpkin, his faithful pet cat, confident that he will set out into the snow to purchase the much-needed "twist." But it is Christmas Eve, that one blessed night when animals are granted the gift of speech. And so, before story's end, we hear not only from Simpkin, but also from all of the mice he has trapped beneath teacups for his holiday feast-well-dressed mice that have benefited for years from the tailor's elegant scraps. Natural enemies become steadfast friends, and all work together to complete a coat that leaves the bedazzled Mayor-and Simpkin and his mice-speechless for a miraculously happy ending on Christmas Day. Art, Folk Tales, Mythology, Language, Literary Classic, History, Music, Reading (K - 5)
Late November and December 2008A Christmas Carol
By Charles Dickens, Music and Lyrics by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill
Perhaps the best loved holiday story of all time, our adaptation of Dickens' classic is particularly suited to children, and features a magnificent score by Jule Styne, the composer of Broadway's immortal Peter Pan, Gypsy and Funny Girl. All the joy, sentiment and meaning are here, without being too scary for young audiences. Family Ties, Language, Literary Classic, Music, Reading (K - 5)
Late November and December 2008'Twas the Night Before Christmas
Book, Music and Lyrics by Bruce Craig Miller
Inspired by the timeless poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas" and by the real life of its author, Clement Moore, this hilarious musical introduces Santa in a particularly beneficent light. This classic from Theatre IV has been charming audiences nationwide for many years. Family Ties, Folk Tales, Language, Literary Classic, Music, Reading (K - 5)
Late November and December 2008
Contact Eric Williams at 1-800-235-8687
orBecause titles, dates, and times are subject to change,
please contact Theatre IV for Up-To-The-Minute information.
Spring 2009
Songs from the Soul
Book by William Dye, Music and Lyrics by Various Artists
This revue of African-American music from slave songs to jazz to blues to rap is not only toetapping entertainment, it's also a vital history lesson that teaches pride, responsibility and respect. The songs illuminate our past and our present as we learn of their transforming impact on our American culture. Language, History, Multi-Cultural, Music (Grade 3 - Adult)
January - March 2009Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad
Book and Lyrics by Douglas Jones; Music by Ron Barnett
Co-produced by the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia
This stirring drama with music is a classic tribute to the great American who freed herself and hundreds of her people from the bonds of slavery. Her courage helped to change the world. Share her adventurous life with your students in this accurate and deeply moving musical history lesson. Family Ties, History, Language, Biography, Multi-Cultural, Music, Self Esteem, Women's Studies (3 - 12)
January - March 2009The Jungle Book
Book and lyrics by Scott Wichmann; Music by Julie Fulcher; Adapted from the Book by Rudyard Kipling
Join young Mowgli as he learns the 'Laws' of the jungle in this time-honored adventure. With the help of friends like the black panther, Bagheera, and Baloo the lovable bear, Mowgli learns about friendship and survival. Cheer as Mowgli faces his fear and foils his nemesis the tiger Shere Khan. This musical version of Rudyard Kipling's classic will delight both the young and the young at heart. Art, Language, Literary Classic, Reading, Science, History, Music, Character Development (K - 5)
March - May 2009Thumbelina
by Hans Christian Andersen; Book, Music and Lyrics by Bruce Miller
This beloved fairytale of heroism comes happily to life in a joyous musical adaptation. Join Thumbelina and her friends (the toad, fish, field mouse, mole and swallow) on a series of delightful adventures in nature's tiny, enchanted world. Art, Language, Literary Classic, Music, Reading, Self Esteem (K - 5)
March - May 2009I Have a Dream
The phenomenal impact of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is chronicled in this compelling dramatization of the life and times of one of the most influential and charismatic leaders of the "American Century." Dr. King becomes the prime mover behind the Montgomery, Alabama bus boycott, putting his philosophy of nonviolent protest to work. Your students will be inspired by the story of this great leader's struggle and his dream of lifting "our nation from the quicksand of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood." Only available after mid March (3 - 12)Rumplestiltskin
Book and Lyrics by Doug Jones; Music by Ron Barnett; Based on the Original Story by The Brothers Grimm
The most famous Miller in the Black Forest of Germany is so proud of his beautiful daughter that he can't resist boasting about her. He even boasts to the King that his daughter can spin straw into gold. Find out what mischief is afoot when the Miller's daughter gives away her most precious possessions to a strange creature named Rumplestiltskin. Folk Tales, Music, Literary Classic, Language, Reading, History, Character Development (K - 5)The Wonderful World of Simple Machines
This lively, hands-on introduction to the scientific principles and properties of simple machines will provide your student a close encounter with levers, inclined planes, screws, wedges, pulleys, and the wheel and axle. This acclaimed show will educate as well as entertain. (K - 5)
Committed to Sponsor Service
Discounts
We offer discounts for Multiple Bookings and Block Bookers if within 150 miles, which may include waiving the gasoline surcharge.Sound System Updates
Sound system updates that are compatible with your house systems or as stand alones.Online Support
On Line Support materials including photos and study guides.Information Support
Through our toll free number (800) 235-8687.Cast Interaction
Question and Answer sessions between our cast and your audience. You may also meet and greet the Cast . (At your request)Outstanding Productions
We offer outstanding professional productions of entertaining plays and musicals carefully connected to the national core curriculum.
• Our plays have a running time of 50 – 60 minutes
• We work hard to make our productions easy to book
and easy on your staff.
• Load-In just two hours before 1st scheduled performance
• Breakdown in just 1 hour or less
• Minimal Tech RequirementsCall Us Today!
We look forward to bringing our value packed productions to your venue. Call Eric Williams today at (800) 235-8687 or
Our Supporters
We are so grateful for the support of our contributors. Theatre IV is a 501 c (3) nonprofit organization.
Arts and Cultural Funding Consortium:
Chesterfield County
Hanover County
Henrico County
City of RichmondARTSFUND, as funded by:
Bank of Ameirca
BBandT/Scott and Stringfellow
Carter, Ryley, Thomas, Inc.
LandAmerica Financial Group, Inc.
Markel Corporation
McGuire Woods L.L.P.
Performance Food Group
Philip Morris USA
SunTrust Bank
Troutman Sanders L.L.P.
Ukrops Super Markets and First Market Bank
Wachovia Bank
Wachovia SecuritiesBon Secours Richmond Health System
CSX Corporation
Flagler Foundation
Garland and Agnes Taylor Gray Foundation, a supporting organization of The Community Foundation Serving Richmond and Central Virginia
Jackson Foundation
Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation
Printpack, Inc. and the Gay and Erskine Love Foundation
Ukrop’s/First Market Bank
Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts
Wachovia Securities, L.L.C.
Windsor Foundation
Because
titles, dates, and times are subject to change,
please contact Theatre IV for Up-To-The-Minute information.
Call Us Today!
We look forward to bringing our value packed productions to your venue. Call Eric Williams today at (800) 235-8687 or
Jessica Daugherty