SUMMARY
The first Cunningham Commission for Youth Theatre, THE KINGDOM OF GRIMM is an inspiring new musical for American children's theatre about the magic of storytelling. One winter's day, young Hans stumbles across a key in the woods. It unlocks an enchanted chest that holds the imprisoned Gerhardt the Great and his troupe of traveling players. To show their thanks, the players perform three fairy tales for Hans: The Golden Goose, The Three Huntsmen and The Four Skillful Brothers. Underscored by songs ranging in style from ballads to blues, Hans learns about generosity, loyalty and hard work. Recommended for ages five and up.

The cast features Talon Beeson (Gerhardt the Great), John Smythe (Hans), and as the Players - Nathan Boren, Briana DeGiulio, Kyle A. Gibson, L’Oreál Jackson, Luke Johanson, Kristen Looper, Laura Mahler, Jonathan McGinley, Ben Rovner and Logan Walters.

This production is sponsored in part by

SPECIAL EVENTS
ASL Interpreted Performances > The performances on THU 4/20 at 10 am and SAT 2/22 at 2 pm will be interpreted in American Sign Language - TTY (773) 325-7975.

Chicago Children's Museum Day > On SAT 4/15, be eligible to win a family membership from the Chicago Children’s Museum.

Opening Saturday Autographs > After the performance on SAT 4/15, join the cast for autographs and photo opportunities.

Edwardo's Day: On SAT 4/22, be eligible to win a pizza party for 20, plus other giveaways from Edwardo’s Natural Pizza Restaurant.

Ice Cream Social > Enjoy an ice-cream treat, discussion, design exhibit and autograph session with the director, dramaturg and cast in a private event room at the Hilton Chicago and Towers following the performance on SAT 4/22. Tickets for this event are $5 and are available at (312) 922-1999.

Chicago Public Library Day > From 11 am – 12:15 pm on SAT 5/13, visit the Thomas Hughes Children’s Library at the Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St., to see an excerpt from the play, read from related books and participate in discussion and activities with members of the cast. Admission for this event is FREE; advance reservations are not required.

Notebaert Nature Museum Day > On SAT 5/13, be eligible to win a family membership from the Notebaert Nature Museum.

Glazed Expressions Day> On SAT 5/20, be eligible to win a birthday party package from Glazed Expressions, the paint-it-yourself pottery place.