Generations of young readers have cherished the spirited adventures of the Boxcar Children, and now the story comes to life on stage. Orphaned and in danger of being sent to different foster homes, the four siblings run away and make their home in an abandoned railroad boxcar. The children discover the rewards and perils of life on the run, as well as the joy of keeping their family together.

A children’s favorite, the well-known story about a twenty-four foot high giant and a little girl is recreated faithfully for the stage. At Sophie’s party, family and friends act out the story using props, puppets and improvisation.

After World War II, Kyushu, a Japanese street-kid from Hiroshima, is sent to the hospital. For mysterious reasons, she seems to be losing her eyesight. Could it be the lingering effects of the bomb dropped on her city? When it seems that her doctors may not be able to help, she meets Sadako, a brave girl who teaches Kyushu how to make origami paper cranes and how to find hope in the darkest places. This award-winning play, based on the Japanese tradition of the origami crane as a symbol of peace and the story of the real Sadako Sasaki, gives families an opportunity to discuss what happens to innocent children when adults go to war. Recommended for ages 10 and up.

To read more about Sadako, go to the website http://www.sadako.org/sadakostory.htm