Learn more about our 2017-2018 Season!

Group discounts available for 10+ tickets!
Call 301-280-1664 for group sales.
4908 Auburn Avenue
Bethesda, Maryland 20814
www.imaginationstage.org
301-280-1660
SF
“Imagination Stage has a reputation for
bringing communities together with intuitive,
inclusive, effective productions!” —DC THEATRE SCENE
I_Stage
@imaginationstage
@imaginationstage
@I_Stage
/imaginationstage
PERMIT NO. 162
Bethesda, MD
P A I D
U.S. Postage
Non-Profit Org.
2017–2018
SEASON
www.imaginationstage.org
BONNIE FOGEL
JANET STANFORD
Founder/Executive Director
Artistic Director
MISSION
“You have been my friend. That in itself is
—E.B. White, 1952
a tremendous thing.”
DEAR FRIENDS:
Every day we are exposed to stories—stories in the news; stories
of friends; stories from our personal cultural heritage, history or
religion; stories in a book at bedtime; and stories in the theatre.
Many of these will fade from our memory as time passes while
others stay with us for a lifetime. As Wilbur might say, these lasting
stories are our “true friends”.
The great and memorable characters in literature live on in our imaginations long
after the book-cover closes or the house lights come up. Charlotte, Robin Hood, and
Charlie Brown are characters that many adults have known and loved all their lives.
Charlotte is the most altruistic of heroines who uses her wit and spider skills to save
a friend’s life. Robin Hood famously robs from the rich to give to the poor, doing all
that one righteous outlaw can in an unjust age. And, Charlie Brown embodies the
insecurities of everyone who has ever had an unrequited crush, struggled with team
sports, or been plagued by a pesky little sister. These characters become reference
points for us at key points in our lives—icons of kindness, bravery, or ineptitude.
They provide a kind of measuring stick for our souls. Am I as kind and good as
Charlotte? As great a risk-taker as Robin? Or as graceful a loser as Charlie Brown?
In our upcoming season, I know you will find many memorable characters.
Besides those mentioned above that you likely already know, there are Leo and Lizzy
in Miriam Gonzales’ play The Smartest Girl in the World. This brother and sister from a
Latino family are determined to prove their extraordinary abilities and contribute to
a better life for their family. And, in The Princess and the Pauper—A Bollywood Tale, a
new musical by Anu Yadav, you’ll meet Razia and Zainab, two girls from India whose
long ago and faraway story mirrors Mark Twain’s famous adventure about a prince
and a peasant boy who swap places. Maybe you will discover that one of these new
characters finds a place in your heart for all time . . .
Whether the story is new or old, stories told on stage at Imagination Stage give
you precious shared experiences with family members and friends, and the chance
to meet and talk to the actors who play your favorite parts. You may even want
to have your photo taken with Charlotte, Robin Hood, or Charlie Brown! Take
advantage of our low-cost subscriptions to see all five shows. That way, you
maximize the memories, and up the chances of meeting a literary character who’ll
be your true friend for life.
Sincerely,
Janet Stanford
Artistic Director
www.imaginationstage.org
Imagination Stage inspires creativity
through theatre and arts education
programs that nurture, challenge, and
empower young people of all abilities.
Subscribe and
discover savings
on single ticket
prices, plus
receive many
additional perks!
Details on Page 16.
Learn more at
www.imaginationstage.org.
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THE ANNETTE M. AND THEODORE N. LERNER FAMILY THEATRE
The Smartest
Girl in the World
OCTOBER 7–29, 2017
Big dreams,
ambitious plans,
and a
lot of heart!
By Miriam Gonzales
Directed by Kathyrn Chase Bryer
Best for Ages 6+
Studious Leo and his younger sister Lizzy couldn’t be
more different. But, the two share dreams of becoming
successful and making life easier for their overworked
parents. When Mami and Papi forbid Leo to accept a
place on his school’s TV Challenge team due to his
chronic illness, Lizzy studies up to compete in his stead.
But, the plan backfires when Leo feels jealous rather
than grateful. Can Lizzy win the competition and regain
her brother’s love?
#IStageSmartestGirl
SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS AT 1:30 P.M. AND 4:00 P.M.
ASL-Interpreted performance October 29 at 4:00 p.m.
Open Captioned performance October 15 at 1:30 p.m.
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www.imaginationstage.org
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THE ANNETTE M. AND THEODORE N. LERNER FAMILY THEATRE
Charlotte's
Web
NOVEMBER 18, 2017–JANUARY 7, 2018
A 'radiant' and
timeless tale
for the holiday
season!
Based on the Book by E. B. White
Adapted by Joseph Robinette
Directed by Kathryn Chase Bryer
Best for Ages 5+
In this beloved classic (now infused with live music!),
Fern, a soft-hearted farm girl, forms an unlikely bond
with Wilbur, a charismatic pig. At the Zuckerman Farm,
Wilbur meets a silly goose, a moody sheep, a selfish rat,
and Charlotte, a clever spider. In an effort to save her friend,
Charlotte weaves flattering messages about him into her
web that cause a sensation in the small town. Fall in love
with your favorite characters all over again as they bring
this “radiant” tale from page to stage this holiday season!
#IStageCharlotte
SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS AT 1:30 P.M.
AND 4:00 P.M.; SELECTED SATURDAYS AT 11:00 A.M.
ASL-Interpreted performance January 7 at 4:00 p.m.
Open Captioned performance December 17 at 1:30 p.m.
SF Sensory-Friendly performance December 17 at 11:00 a.m.
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www.imaginationstage.org
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THE ANNETTE M. AND THEODORE N. LERNER FAMILY THEATRE
The Princess &
The Pauper—
A Bollywood Tale
FEBRUARY 10–MARCH 18, 2018
A Bollywood
twist on the
iconic
American
novel!
By Anu Yadav
Inspired by the Mark Twain classic
Music by Ashwin Subramanian
Directed by Janet Stanford
Best for Ages 5+
Set in long ago India, this Bollywood-inspired adaptation
of the classic Mark Twain novel shows how the common
people work long hours to support the luxurious lifestyle
of those in the palace. As a corrupt Wazir plots to steal
the throne from the Sultan’s heirs, a spoiled Princess Razia
forces a shy dressmaker’s daughter, Zainab, to exchange
places with her. Razia gradually discovers how unfairly
the people are treated, and resolves to become a just
leader. But, can she expose the Wazir’s villainy before he
is crowned? In a madcap finale, Razia, Zainab, and all of
the people of Dehli rise up to crash the coronation.
#IStagePrincess
SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS AT 1:30 P.M. AND 4:00 P.M.
ASL-Interpreted performance March 18 at 4:00 p.m.
Open Captioned performance February 18 at 1:30 p.m.
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www.imaginationstage.org
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THE ANNETTE M. AND THEODORE N. LERNER FAMILY THEATRE
Robin
Hood
Join Robin
and his
Merry Men
in their fight
for justice!
APRIL 14–MAY 20, 2018
By Greg Banks
Directed by Janet Stanford
Best for Ages 4+
In this story from the traditional English folklore,
Chris Dinolfo (JACK and Phil, Slayers of Giants-INC) plays
the title role! Our hero sides with the townsfolk against
the cruel Sheriff of Nottingham (Michael Glenn, Lyle
the Crocodile) and the even crueler, greedier King John.
With his band of Merry Men and the lovely Maid Marian,
Robin robs the rich to help the poor. Experience all
the fun in Sherwood Forest—sword fighting, bows and
arrows, and miraculous escapes!
#IStageRobinHood
SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS AT 1:30 P.M. AND 4:00 P.M.
JOIN US FOR THE ANNUAL CHILDREN'S BALL
MAY 12, 2018!
ASL-Interpreted performance May 20 at 4:00 p.m.
Open Captioned performance April 22 at 1:30 p.m.
SF Sensory-Friendly performance May 13 at 11:00 a.m.
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www.imaginationstage.org
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THE ANNETTE M. AND THEODORE N. LERNER FAMILY THEATRE
You're a Good Man,
Charlie Brown
JUNE 23–AUGUST 12, 2018
Tag along with
the beloved
Charlie Brown and
friends on their
musical
adventure!
Based on the Comic Strip “Peanuts”
by Charles M. Schulz
Book, Music, and Lyrics by Clark M. Gesner
Additional Dialogue by Michael Mayer
Additional Music and Lyrics by Andrew Lippa
Directed by Aaron Posner
Best for Ages 5+
Don’t miss your chance to see the comic strip
characters of the lovable “Peanuts” gang brought to
life in Summer 2018! This hit Off-Broadway musical is
directed by acclaimed playwright and director Aaron
Posner (Ford’s Theatre, Arena Stage, Folger Theatre,
Signature Theatre, Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company,
and many more!). Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy,
Linus, Peppermint Patty, and Schroeder as they sing
and dance their way through the timeless struggles of
childhood. This show features catchy songs, including
“You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown”, and is the perfect
family outing for the young and young at heart!
#IStageCharlie
SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS AT 1:30 P.M. AND 4:00 P.M.
ASL-Interpreted performance August 12 at 4:00 p.m.
Open Captioned performance July 22 at 1:30 p.m.
SF Sensory-Friendly performance July 22 at 11:00 a.m.
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www.imaginationstage.org
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Theatre Education
My First Imagination Stage is our Early Childhood
Program that focuses on children AGES 1–5, providing
fun and developmentally appropriate experiences
through live performances and classes.
THEATRE SEASON
¡Cajas! ¡Cajas! ¡Cajas!
A new bilingual version of
Boxes, Boxes, Boxes!
Originally Titled From Here to There
NOVEMBER 10–DECEMBER 3, 2017
Originally Written and Directed by
Nastasha Holmes, Tell Tale Hearts
Company, UK
Adapted and directed by
Kathryn Chase Bryer
Translated by Maribel Bustamante
Two friends use their imaginations to
build bridges, birds, a train, a plane,
and even a castle from cardboard
boxes. Jump inside the world of a child’s
imagination! Performances are followed
by a “free play” session, allowing the
audience to build their own creations,
using props from the show.
ASL-Interpreted performance Dec. 3 at
11:15 a.m.
Inside Out
JANUARY 13–FEBRUARY 11, 2018
Directed by Kathryn Chase Bryer
It’s bedtime! But instead of getting
ready, two children use their
imaginations to turn their room into
a wonderland of mess! While playing
dress-up, a glove becomes a dancing
fish, a shirt becomes a fantastic creature,
and a sock dance rocks the closet. In
this interactive show, discover the joy
of turning things inside out!
ASL-Interpreted performance Feb. 10 at
11:15 a.m.
Balloonacy
MARCH 10–APRIL 8, 2018
Written by Barry Kornhauser
Directed by Kathryn Chase Bryer
The story of a lonely man who is revived
by a visit from a red balloon is reminiscent
of the silent films of Charlie Chaplin
and Buster Keaton. The playwright has
imagined the man as an older version
of the boy in the movie The Red Balloon,
now grown up and grown old, having
forgotten his youthful adventure. The
red balloon returns to rescue its boy!
ASL-Interpreted performance April 7 at
11:15 a.m.
Paper Dreams
JUNE 23–JULY 29, 2018
Written and directed by Claudia Moreso,
Mons Dansa Dance Company
Barcelona Spain with the US remount
directed by Kathryn Chase Bryer
In a collaboration with Mons Dansa Dance
Company Barcelona, Spain, we bring to
life our first dance performance-based
show, perfect for ages 1−5 that explores
the many facets of creativity. A fun,
interactive production that tells the story
of two delightful creatures who live inside
a wastepaper basket. Can our greatest
mistake actually turn out to be the next
great innovative idea?
ASL-Interpreted performance July 28 at
11:15 a.m.
Visit imaginationstage.org/earlychildhood to learn about other offerings.
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www.imaginationstage.org
2017–2018 CLASSES AND CAMPS
AT IMAGINATION STAGE
CLASSES AND CAMPS
“Every experience
Whether in early
childhood, creative
drama, acting,
dance, musical
theatre, or filmmaking,
Imagination Stage
offers popular, creative
class experiences throughout the school year, and fun
camps during Winter, Spring, and Summer breaks
for ages 1–18. The talented and dedicated teaching
artists of Imagination Stage have created a curriculum
and approach that emphasize the development of
technique in the performing arts, as well as creative
skills that serve young people for the rest of their lives.
I have had with
BRING IMAGINATION STAGE
TO YOUR SCHOOL
Imagination Stage
over the past
year has been
phenomenal! It is
a pleasure to
drop your child
somewhere and
know the staff is
competent, and
that your child will
be safe and have
a good time!”
—IMAGINATION STAGE PARENT
For families who are unable to make it
to our Bethesda location, we offer classes
at your school that bring teaching artists
and programs to schools around the
region for both in-school and afterschool opportunities. You, your principal,
or your PTA can organize a class!
INCLUSION
Imagination Stage seeks to create an inclusive,
welcoming environment and equitable access to all
artistic and educational programming. We encourage
children of all abilities to discover and develop their full
creative potential
through the
performing arts.
Our staff works
with students and
their families to
identify and provide
the most successful
experiences for
each family.
13
Ticket sales only cover 50% of our expenses
each year. By becoming a FRIENDS CIRCLE
donor, you help support Imagination Stage’s
acclaimed theatre productions and education
programs while enhancing your experience!
FRIENDS CIRCLE donors receive exclusive
benefits including:
OPENING NIGHTS
Receive an invitation to attend exclusive
opening night performances, followed by
a catered reception, backstage tour, and
opportunity to meet the actors.
n
n
$2 DISCOUNT ON ALL TICKETS
5% DISCOUNT ON
CLASSES AND CAMPS
Become a Friend Today!
BECOME AN
IMAGINATION
SUSTAINER
Imagination Sustainers are
valued Friends Circle monthly
givers. Starting at $10/month,
receive Friends Circle benefits
paired with the ease and
convenience of monthly giving.
14
For more information or to join, please contact
Chelsey Christensen, Director of Development, at
301-280-1625, or at [email protected].
Learn more about the many benefits of being
a FRIEND by visiting imaginationstage.org.
Plan Your Visit
Imagination Stage is conveniently located on
the quiet, northern edge of downtown Bethesda.
Av
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ay
Av
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ell
Av
St.
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Elm
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Au
bu
P rn
Wilson Lane
Moorland Lane
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Edgemoor Lane
410
METRO
4908 Auburn Avenue
Bethesda, MD 20814
Imagination Stage is a 10–15 minute walk from
the Bethesda station (Red Line). From the metro,
you can also catch the Bethesda Circulator—a free shuttle that stops on
Old Georgetown Road near the theatre. From there, Imagination Stage
is only a short walk away.
PARKING
Imagination Stage is adjacent to a public parking garage with metered parking
during the week and free parking on Saturdays and Sundays. Enter the garage
from Auburn Avenue or Del Ray Avenue. Street parking is free on Sundays only,
and accepts coins Monday–Saturday.
HOW TO GET A DEAL
In addition to cost savings from subscriptions, discounts are available to groups
of 10 or more, and to school groups, which frequently qualify for $7 tickets!
Finally, a limited amount of $10 Trawick tickets
will be available each Monday at 10:00 a.m.
ACCESSIBILITY
for the following week’s performances.
For more information call 301-280-1660.
Our theatres feature accessible seating
Follow us on social media
for exclusive offers
and behind-the-scenes
access to shows!
THANK YOU in advance for your support!
/imaginationstage
Imagination Stage is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization.
All contributions are tax-deductible less the fair market value
of Friends Circle benefits.
@I_Stage
www.imaginationstage.org
Ave
Rugby
De
JUST IMAGINE! GIFT SHOP AND
SELF-SERVICE VENDING CAFE
Extend your experience at home! Discover
unique, creative souvenirs and gifts (items in a
wide range of prices) at our popular gift shop.
You'll find costumes, books, and other toys
that encourage creativity. Don’t forget to grab
a snack or drink with us from our self-service
vending options!
ne
Battrey La
sin Ave
Wiscon
Be a part
of our story!
Support
Imagination
Stage!
@imaginationstage
Sensory-Friendly
performances are
designed to be more
accessible to those
individuals on the
autism spectrum
or to others with
sensory sensitivities.
on a limited basis (with or without a
transfer option). Assistive Listening
Devices and Large Print programs
are available upon request. We offer
ASL interpretation and SensoryFriendly experiences for selected
performances. For more information,
please call 301-280-1660.
SF
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DISCOVER BEST VALUE!
ORDER FORM (PLEASE USE BALL POINT PEN)
STEP 1: ABOUT YOU
ABOUT OUR SUBSCRIPTION PACKAGES
Don’t miss out on our highly anticipated 2017-2018
Season packed with beloved stories—new and old—
including our Summer production, You’re a Good Man,
Charlie Brown, directed by acclaimed playwright and
director, Aaron Posner! Take advantage of incredible
savings of more than 50% on orchestra-level seats by
subscribing to all five shows. Enjoy the entire season at
only $60 per 5-Play Pack subscription, and introduce
Imagination Stage to your family and friends so that they,
too, can discover the magic and memories we offer!
ABOUT THE FLEX PACK
Flex Packs are the perfect way to
save big with FLEXibility! Flex Packs
offer discounted tickets in packs of
seven or more. Use as many tickets as
you like, whenever you like. Attend
a few shows throughout the season,
bring out-of-town guests during the
holidays, or make it an outing for
your child’s friends. At only $19 per
Flex Pack, tickets must be purchased
by March 18, 2018, and are valid for
any of our shows in the Lerner Family
Theatre 2017–2018 Season.
NAME
ADDRESS
C I T Y S TAT E Z I P
P R E F E R R E D P H O N E N U M B E R E M A I L *IMPORTANT! This is our primary contact with you.
STEP 2: CHECK OUT OUR 2017–2018 SEASON
The Smartest Girl in the World (ages 6+) Oct. 7–Oct. 29, 2017
Charlotte's Web (ages 5+) Nov. 18, 2017–Jan. 7, 2018
The Princess & The Pauper—A Bollywood Tale (ages 5+) Feb. 10–March 18, 2018
Robin Hood (ages 4+) April 14–May 20, 2018
You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown (ages 5+) June 23–Aug. 12, 2018
❒ I wish to attend ASL-Interpreted performances
❒ I require wheelchair accessible seating
Notes for the Box Office:_______________________________________
STEP 3: PICK YOUR PACKAGE
5-Play Pack
#_____ of tickets x $60 $__________
FLEX Pack
#_____ of tickets (minimum 7) x $19 =
n
n
UNLIMITED ticket exchanges
$2 off additional tickets for family
and friends
n
5% off class and camp registrations
n
Performance reminder emails
HOW TO ORDER
Order online, by phone,
by fax, or by mail:
Imagination Stage
Attention: Box Office
4908 Auburn Avenue,
Bethesda, MD 20814
301-280-1668 (p) 301-718-8803 (f)
[email protected]
www.imaginationstage.org
$__________
INCLUDE ORDER PROCESSING FEE OTHER PERKS
Please note: You will choose
your exact show dates/times
with the Box Office after your
order has been received.
$5.00
SUBTOTAL $__________
STEP 4: ADD A CONTRIBUTION (OPTIONAL)
Ticket prices alone do not cover the cost of our productions. Please consider
adding a tax-deductible one-time or recurring contribution (see page 14 for details).
Contribution $____________ q Monthly q One-Time
TOTAL $____________
STEP 5: PAYMENT METHOD
❒ American Express ❒ Mastercard ❒ Visa ❒ Check (payable to Imagination Stage)
CARDHOLDER’S NAME
Imagination Stage is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. All contributions, less benefits of certain
value, are fully tax-deductible in accordance with the law (Tax ID #52-1164889).
CREDITS
DESIGN Cynthia Friedman
SHOW ILLUSTRATIONS Raul Colon
PRODUCTION PHOTOGRAPHS Margot Schulman,
Laura diCurcio, Jeremy Rusnock, Shea Bartlett,
Stephanie Williams Images, LLC
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Imagination Stage is supported, in part, by
generous grants from the Maryland State Arts
Council, the Arts and Humanities Council
of Montgomery County, the Maryland
Department of Education, the Montgomery
County Government, and The Shubert Foundation.
www.imaginationstage.org
CARD NUMBER
CVV
E X P I R AT I O N D AT E
A U T H O R I Z I N G S I G N AT U R E
Titles and dates subject to change.
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