The Hilberry Theatre, on the campus of Wayne State University, will open Charlotte's Web based on the book by E.B. White and dramatized by Joseph Robinette at 10:30 a.m. on June 23. "It is not often that someone comes along who is a true friend." Wilbur, an adorable farm pig, learns of the destiny that befalls all farm pigs. However, he meets Charlotte, an extraordinary spider who becomes a special friend. Charlotte helps save Wilbur from his fate by showing that he is no ordinary pig. Together, the friendship they share carries them through all that life has to offer in this Newberry Honor award-winning classic.
Director Lavinia Hart (Detroit) lends her directing expertise to the production. Most recently Hart co-directed the award nominated production of The Kentucky Cycle Parts I and II.
Cast members include: Michael Anthony Adams (Detroit) as Homer, the Judge, and Uncle (the Pig); Angela Duffy (Roseville)as Fern and Goose; Katie Galazka (Livonia) as Mrs. Arable, Gander, and President of the Fair; Darrel Glasgow (Sterling Heights) as Arable, Templeton, Lurvy, and Avery; Amanda Rae Jones (Detroit) as Charlotte; Molly McMahon (Ypsilanti) as Wilbur; and Frannie Shepard-Bates (Walled Lake) as the Narrator, Sheep, and a Reporter (Carter). Charlotte's Web also features scenic design by Kristen Compton (Sterling Heights), costume design by Lanny Birdsell (Detroit), lighting design by Elizabeth Cooper (Grosse Pointe Woods), and sound design by Neil Koivu (Ferndale).
Charlotte's Web plays at the Hilberry Theatre located 4743 Cass Avenue on the corner of Hancock. Performances are June 23, 24, 25, 26 & 29, 30 July 1, 2 & 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10. All performances at 10:30 a.m. Tickets are $4. $3 for groups of 10 or more. For more information and tickets please call Wayne State University's theatre box office, open Monday through Friday from 10-2 p.m., at (313) 577-2972.
All publicity photos by Sean Coughlin.