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A lively musical tale for the holidays
Cast of 75 to present 'Princess and the Pea'

Pleasanton's Civic Arts Stage Company will present the classic tale, "The Princess and the Pea," in holiday panto style Dec. 10-19 at the Amador Theater.

The production will combine the traditional tale of vain Queen Grossioso, henchman Ratatouille and Princess Victoria with the fun of British panto-style theater, which includes frequent audience participation and interaction.

In addition to the story, the show will entertain with lighthearted music and Shakespearean plot twists.

"The message we bring to our audiences in this show is about being true to yourself and telling the truth," said director Rebecca J. Ennals. "It's about being who you really are and finding your right place in the world."

The play, written by Kate Hawley, is based on Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" in which a princess dresses up as boy, becomes close friends with the prince, and falls in love with him. At the ball, she appears as a girl and all is revealed, culminating in a happy ending.

The cast of 75 is joined by professional guest actors Paula Wujek, who has directed and acted in many local productions, and Charles Orlando, who has worked with Pleasanton's Creatures of Impulse teen improv troupe as well as several other Bay Area community theater groups.

"Thirty of our cast members are brand new to Civic Arts Stage Company, which demonstrates our commitment to expanding our reach and welcoming new actors," said Ennals.

Music was developed for the play and adapted especially for Civic Arts Stage Company. This lively, expressive, musical show can become part of everyone's festive holiday celebrations, Ennals said.

The Amador Theater is located at 1155 Santa Rita Road. Performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 10, 11, 17 and 18; and at 2 p.m. Dec. 12, 18 and 19. A special Firehouse Kids series performance will take place at 11 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 11. Tickets for adults are $10, $15, $18; children and seniors $6, $9 and $12. Purchase online at www.firehousearts.org or call 931-4848. Series and group discounts are available.