Tales of Hans Christian Andersen/The Nightingale

Adapted by Carolyn Lane, written by Creative Educational Systems

Directed by Jeni Hanko, Mike Irwin, Ellen Paul

In Tales of Hans Christian Andersen, an assortment of surprise packages yields four very special gifts... the gifts of storyteller Hans Christian Andersen to the children of the world. Out of a bright birthday box steps "The Steadfast Tin Soldier" to tell of his undying love for a paper dancing doll. A dilapidated old crate yields the comic tale of "The Swineherd" who spurns a royal princess, and from a basket of eggs comes the well-loved story of "The Ugly Duckling." The fourth tale concludes with the touching romance of "The Little Mermaid" who loves a human being, the story discovered in an ancient sea chest.

In The Nightingale, another story originally written by Andersen, the Empress reads in a book that of all the treasures in her land, the Nightingale was the most precious. She sets out to hear the Nightingale’s song in the woods and is so inspired she invites it to court to stay there. Once there, she puts it in a cage. When she receives a mechanical nightingale, which is encrusted with jewels, she and her court forget all about the real Nightingale who escapes the court and disappears. Later, when the Empress falls ill and is on her deathbed, it is the real Nightingale who returns to heal him with her song.

Produced by Sauk Prairie Theatre Guild at River Arts Center, 105 9th Street, Prairie du Sac

Performances: October 17-19, 2014

Performance Times: October 17-18, 7:00 p.m.; October 19, 2:00 p.m.

Ticket Prices: Adults in advance- $10; at door, $12 Students in advance- $8.; at door $10 Children 3 and under on parent lap- Free

Call 608-448-6770 for reservations or more information.