Stages Theatre Company Presents CRENSHAW By Katherine Applegate

Stages Theatre Company's In the Heart of Imagination season continues with world-premiere adaptation of Crenshaw, based on the touching book by, Newbery Winning Author, Katherine Applegate. This imaginative production of reality and fantasy delivers an unforgettable and magical story about family, friendship and resilience.

Crenshaw comes to life on Friday, April 27th and runs through Saturday, May 19th. It is recommended for ages 8 and up. Tickets are on sale now! Visit www.stagestheatre.org for specific performance dates and times, or call the Box Office Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 6 pm at (952) 979-1111, option 4. Tickets are $16 for adults; $14 for seniors, ages 60+ and children.

The story follows a young boy, Jackson, who, while facing his family's hard economic realities, finds a friend and hope in a very large, outspoken and imaginary skateboarding cat, Crenshaw. The production is a beautiful escape that will make you feel nostalgic for the days when imaginary friends were your greatest joy and your shield from your parent's worries.

The hour-long production, directed by Jon Ferguson, tells an important story that explores the hardships that many people face in our society. "[These stories] help us to be more compassionate and understanding - and better cope when our lives become challenging," said Ferguson. "The story of Crenshaw is full of so much heart between friends (real and imaginary) and so much love between family members. It reminds us that everything will be okay as long as we listen to each other and love each other and strive to be honest with each other."

The Cast:

Maxon Aasen (Jackson), Emily Anose (Marisol), Benjamin Boudewyns (Flashback Jackson), Ronan Guevara (Ensemble), Anna Hickey (Mom), Aymara Johnson (Robin), Joshua Larson (Dad), Alyra Nicholson (Ensemble), Gavin Nienaber (Ensemble), Roy Richardson Jr. (Crenshaw), Natalie Richardson-Wymore (Ensemble) and Madeline Sundheim (Ensemble)

The Creative Team:

Artistic Director - Sandy Boren-Barrett, Director - Jon Ferguson, Assistant Director- Cody R. Braudt , Set Designer - Sarah Brandner, Technical Director - Gretchen Katt, Lighting Designer- Grant E. Merges, Costume & Make-Up Designer- Lori Opsal, Sound Designer- Matt Ouren, Props Designer - Megan Teynor, Stage Manager- Emily Sullivan, Assistant Stage Manager- Amanda Gehake

Accessibility is a core value of Stages Theatre Company, and the organization is committed to removing barriers to participation in the theatre arts. Families and schools facing financial challenges are invited to submit ticket, tuition, and bus subsidy requests through STC's Open Door Program by visiting https://www.stagestheatre.org/tickets/open-door-program/ or calling (952) 979-1112.

STC also provides accommodations for patrons with hearing, vision, and other physical challenges, as well as sensory-friendly performances for patrons with autism or other sensory sensitivities. STC now provides tactile boxes (available at the box office) for audience members to explore costume fabric, props, and other components from the production (items labeled in Braille when possible). For details on accessible performances, please visit http://www.stagestheatre.org/about-us/accessibility/

Stages Theatre Company is dedicated to creating a space where diverse opinions, courageous dialogue, and local, national, and international community engagement is not only valued, but vital to our shared artistic and educational success. We make this pledge in hope of curating a welcome home for all.

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 145,000 young people and their families.