Oakland Public Theater Welcomes The Infamous Mr. Toad

OAKLAND PUBLIC THEATER presents another installment in its WIND IN THE WILLOWS series, Chapter 2, The Open Road, which features the travelling antics of Mr. Toad. As with past installments, this show will tour libraries in Oakland, Berkeley and beyond, delighting children and families throughout the East Bay.

(PRWEB) April 12, 2004 --WHO: OAKLAND PUBLIC THEATER

WHAT: WIND IN THE WILLOWS,CHAPTER TWO

WHERE:   Performs in East Bay library branches

WHEN:May-June(call local branch for dates & times)

INFO:   510-534-9529 or call your library branch

COST:      FREE at libraries!

Oakland Public Theater Welcomes The Infamous Mr. Toad

Oh pooh! Boating!" interrupted the Toad ...Ive given that up looong ago."

The outrageous Mr.Toad takes center stage, and life on the river will never be the same! Ratty and Mole find themselves reluctant passengers on this first of Toads wild rides. The most popular character from the WIND IN THE WILLOWS will be played by Gendell Hernandez in WITW2: The Open Road. As with previous shows, WITW2 will tour library branches in Oakland, Berkeley, and beyond.

WITW2:The Open Road is the latest installment of O.P.T.s re:storying project --classic literature translated to theater, with diverse characterizations, delighting audiences of all ages on a variety of levels. Hundreds of children and their families have enjoyed the antics of Mole and Rat so far, and this installment will add performances in Hayward as well.

Its fun how each chapter stands alone," notes performer Elizabeth Carter, so even new audiences can enjoy it." And as always a few young folk from the audience will play a role in the show, this time as a gaggle of singing ducklings.

The show will tour libraries throughout the East Bay from late May to late June. WITW2:The Open Road, once again features Taz Balbuena as Mole and Artistic Director Norman Gee as Rat, and includes Elizabeth Carter and Zac Jaffee. After directing the last two WITW installments for OPT, Gendell Hernandez will this time join the folks onstage as Toad. Gendell is a popular performer in the Bay Area with such diverse groups as Berkeley Rep, Shotgun Players, and the hip-hop group Felonious.

This project allows us to combine our love of books with our love of theater," Gee points out. We like to highlight the universal themes, and take advantage of the diverse possibilities within traditional favorites. Stories rooted in friendship, loyalty, and adventure appeal to all communities. Whether youre talking about animals or people, that message is always worth repeating. "

CONTACT: NORMAN GEE, Director    (510) 534-9529