Like frog and toad (characters created by author Arnold Lobel), theatre and literature are complementary friends. The Topeka Civic Theatre and Academy and the library are teaming up to promote stage productions and the literature upon which they are based.

Carole Reis, President of TCTA, expressed her excitement about the partnership: “TCTA is thrilled at the opportunity to partner with the library ... theatre is a natural partner to improve literacy in the community. So many plays are literature-based. This sneak performance gives us a chance to explore the connection between our play and the book it is based on.”

“Read the Book, See the Show” has been a successful library promotion at Mainstage productions. “TCTA at the library” is the next step in encouraging reading and viewing of related works. The 2008-09 TCTA season debuts a new category of performances, Theatre for Young Audiences, theatre by adults for children. Saturday and Sunday matinees make it easy for families to enjoy theatre together.

A Year with Frog and Toad and Ferdinand the Bull, based on the classic book, The Story of Ferdinand, by Munro Leaf, are musicals for the whole family. Two TCT Youth Academy shows, Sarah Plain and Tall, based on the book by Patrician MacLachlan, and Honk! Junior, a musical that parallels the folk tale, The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Andersen, encourage children to read the original works and experience the story as the characters come alive.

To kick off the theatre at the library programs, spend An Evening with Frog and Toad, November 5 at 7 pm in the Marvin Auditorium. Bring a friend and collect a prize. Preview the upcoming TCTA show, view and hear about real frogs from resident naturalist, Jackie Hurst. Following an hour of fun activities, check out a book and then purchase a ticket to see A Year With Frog and Toad at TCTA November 14, 15, 21 and 22 at 7 pm, and on Sunday, November 16 and 23 at 2 pm. Be sure to take a friend!

This article is by Janet Pionkowski and was originally published in the November 2008 issue of connectnow, the library's monthly magazine and event schedule.