The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts Announces Family Series for 2017-2018 Season
SAINT PAUL, Minn. (July 20, 2017) — The Ordway Center for the Performing Arts is thrilled to announce its new Family Series for the 2017-2018 season. The season features three of the most popular and acclaimed family acts in North America: David Gonzalez, the Okee Dokee Brothers and Mermaid Theatre. Both single tickets and subscription packages are available now at www.ordway.org, by phone at 651-224-4222 or in person at the Ordway ticket office.
“For the past 17 years, our primary way of engaging with families has been through the Flint Hills International Children’s Festival. This new series gives us the opportunity to connect with family audiences in new ways throughout the entire year,” said Shelley Quiala, vice president of arts education and engagement. “Dayna Martinez, the artistic director of the Family Series, has curated a great selection of master storytellers and family favorites for this inaugural season.”
The 2017-2018 Family Series includes:
David Gonzalez presents “Cuentos: Tales from the Latino World”
Sept. 30, 2017, at 11:00 a.m.
Using live music and storytelling, critically acclaimed and award-winning artist David Gonzalez paints a vivid picture of the people and rich cultures of the Spanish-speaking world with colorful tales from the Caribbean, South America and the Bronx. From the silly antics of the Puerto Rican anti-hero, Juan Bobo, to the mysterious dealings and powers of the Orishas in a suite of Afro-Cuban stories, these tales are filled with memorable characters, fantastic plots and positive messages for children. Spanish language words are sprinkled throughout the stories and songs in such a way that young audiences can repeat and retain their sound and meaning.
March 3, 2018, at 11:00 a.m.
As childhood friends growing up in Denver Colorado, Joe Mailander and Justin Lansing were always exploring the outdoors. Whether it was rafting down their neighborhood creek or discovering hiking trails through the Rocky Mountains, Joe and Justin were born adventurers. Now, as the GRAMMY® Award-winning Okee Dokee Brothers, they have put this passion for the outdoors at the heart of their Americana Folk music. The Okee Dokee Brothers make room for kids to dance, for parents to share stories, and for everyone to gain respect for nature, each other and the world we live in.
Mermaid Theatre’s “Goodnight Moon and the Runaway Bunny”
April 4, 2018, at 2:00 p.m.
Mermaid Theatre brings to life two beloved children’s stories through their unique style of puppetry and black light. Adapted from Margaret Wise Brown’s 60-year-old classic, “Goodnight Moon” is a celebration of familiar nighttime rituals, while “The Runaway Bunny”’s pretend tale of leaving home evokes reassuring responses from his loving mom. Both stage adaptations feature endearing animal puppets and stunning scenic effects based on Clement Hurd’s illustrations, as well as evocative musical accompaniment.
“Keeping with the tradition of the Children’s Festival, we wanted to present a variety of diverse artists that specialize in work for children and families,” said Martinez. “Each of these performances gives families the chance to unplug. Kids can make noise, have fun, and parents can relax knowing that the show is made for them.”
The Ordway’s Family Series is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
ABOUT THE ORDWAY CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
The Ordway is widely recognized as one of the nation’s leading nonprofit performing arts centers and Saint Paul’s most elegant and inviting performance space. The Ordway’s Music Theater and Concert Hall attract diverse audiences with an array of productions showcasing the finest in American musical theater, world music, dance and vocal performance. Education and community engagement are integral to the Ordway’s mission, with major initiatives including the annual Flint Hills International Children’s Festival and Ordway Education programs that serve more than 50,000 students annually. Together with Minnesota Opera, The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra and The Schubert Club, the Ordway is a member of the Arts Partnership and serves as the principal venue for their performances. For more information, visit www.ordway.org.
