'Madeline’s Christmas' opens at Stages Theatre Co. Friday

Editor's Note: The following announcement comes from Stages Theatre Co.

Beginning Nov. 16 celebrate Christmas in Paris with 12 little girls in two straight lines when “Madeline’s Christmas” by Ludwig Bemelmans comes to life this holiday season at Stages Theatre Company (STC). Filled with magic carpet rides and miracles for Madeline and her friends, this beloved holiday favorite will thrill audiences of all ages.

Audiences will witness a first for STC – the tallest set ever designed – with the Eiffel Tower taking center stage. Coming in at 24 feet high, the tower is a visual wonder that allowed Set Designer Brian Proball to think of creative possibilities. “The original tower is 81 stories high and is considered an architectural wonder of its time. It is a feat of engineering - even miniaturized for the stage. It was quite a challenge to get it both to fit in size and have the right look while still having enough structure to hold everything up. It’s the type of set you can stand right up against the front of the stage and almost see the top if you squint your eyes.”

The extravagant set will add to the timeless story about Madeline and her efforts to take care of the other girls and Miss Clavel when the flu hits the Old House. Sadness sinks in when the girls realize they may not be able to go home for Christmas, but an unexpected person arrives and that is where the adventure begins. Adapted by Jennifer Kirkeby with music by Shirley Mier, this musical holiday hit teaches a very important lesson – miracles really do exist.

“Madeline’s Christmas” opens Nov. 16 and ends Dec. 27, with a run time of 60 minutes and is suitable for all ages. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www.stagestheatre.org for performance dates and times, or by calling the Box Office at (952) 979-1111, Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, and $12 for children (ages 5 to 17) and seniors (60+).

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 130,000 young people and their families.