Tickets On Sale For New Season Of Northbrook Theatre's Youth Group

NORTHBROOK, IL — Local young thespians are set for another great season at Northbrook Theatre. The group's Northbrook Theatre Youth Company features actors ages 8 and up who perform plays and musicals for audiences of all ages

"We have a fantastic season lined up, and we can't wait for families to join us on this engaging and educational artistic journey," said Drew Kambach, visual and performing arts manager for the Northbrook Park District.

All NTYA productions are performed by professional actors and serve as a "wonderful introduction" to live theater, according to the organization. All shows are performed at Northbrook Theatre, located inside the Leisure Center, 3323 Walters Ave.

Here is a breakdown of featured shows:

'Tale of the Whale' — Oct. 13 to Oct. 20

This original production, inspired by the story of Jonah and the whale, will take audiences on a multi-sensory theatrical experience.

"We used the story of forgiveness as the launchpad, taking its wonder and educational value, and turning it into a fun adventure with plenty of sea shanties and magic moments for children," said Kambach, who added that the audience will be an active part in the storytelling.

The show is best suited for ages 2 to 5. Tickets are $15. The Oct. 13 and 20 performances will be followed by a Whale Puppets Workshop for children accompanied by an adult (separate $29 ticket fee).

"The Very Hungry Caterpillar" — Nov. 21 to Dec. 4

The play includes adaptations of four children’s books by author and illustrator Eric Carle: “Brown Bear, Brown Bear,” “Little Rubber Ducks,” “The Very Busy Spider,” and of course, the star of the show, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.”

There are 75 adorable puppets, including fireflies, apples, pelicans, sheep, octopuses, dogs, pears, polar bears, frogs, dolphins, dogs, salami, seagulls, lollipops, butterflies and many more in this critically-acclaimed show.

The show is geared toward ages 2 and up. Tickets are $17. The Nov. 16, 23 and 30 performances will be followed by a Caterpillar Crumbs Workshop, a cookie-decorating class for children accompanied by an adult (separate $29 ticket fee).

'Dragons Love Tacos' — Feb. 1 to Feb. 22, 2025

This production is based on the well-known children’s book written by Adam Rubin and illustrated by Daniel Salmieri.

"It features two things that most kids love: dragons and tacos," Kambach said "It's a fun and light
production that explores themes of likes and dislikes, and always dreaming big."

The show will be geared toward ages 3 and up. Tickets are $17. A yet-to-be-determined complementary workshop is in the planning stages.

There will also be performances of "High School Musical" and "A Christmas Story: The Play" this season.

Northbrook Theatre also offers classes to help develop children's appreciation for the arts. This fall's classes include storybook drama, mini melodies, playmakers, junior improv and sketch comedy. There are also private classes., For more information about this fall’s classes, visit
nbparks.org/programs/theatre/performingarts.

To purchase tickets or more information, visit nbparks.org or call 847-291-2993.