Performance Riverside brings the most beloved children’s book of the twentieth century to the stage on May 5, 2007, when it presents Charlotte’s Web as the final show of the 2006-07 Family Series. Written by Stuart Little author E. B. White, it tells the story of a barn spider named Charlotte and her friendship with a pig named Wilbur. Written in White’s dry, low-key manner, Charlotte’s Web is considered a classic of children’s literature, enjoyable for adults as well as children.

Charlotte’s Web is presented by special arrangement with TheatreReach, the Laguna Playhouse’s Equity Theatre for Young Audiences touring program. Critical acclaim has made the Laguna Playhouse one of Southern California’s most important nonprofit theatre companies. The show is under the direction of Donna Inglima, Laguna Playhouse’s Director of Youth Theatre, Education and Outreach.  The cast features Christopher Zenner as Wilbur, Dyan McBride as Fern, Bethanie Knieser as Charlotte, Dennis O’Brien as Templeton, Mark Turnbull as President of the Fair, and Jane Hilary as Old Old Sheep.

Charlotte’s Web is the latest in an ongoing series of collaborations between Performance Riverside and prestigious West Coast performing arts groups such as the California Theatre Center, Orange County Performing Arts Center, and the Tears of Joy Theatre that bring high quality live performances to Inland Empire young people. Performance Riverside will expand this collaboration in its 2007-2008 Season to include a joint family series with the Riverside County Philharmonic Orchestra. Shows will be at both the Landis Performing Arts Center and the Riverside Municipal Auditorium. 

Charlotte’s Web will be performed for the general public on Saturday, May 5 at 2pm. The Landis Performing Arts Center is located on the Riverside City College campus at 4800 Magnolia Avenue. General admission tickets are $10, and can be purchased through the Landis Box Office, 951-222-8100.  Reserved tickets and group tickets are also available. Special rates for school groups are offered on May 3 and 4 at 9:30 and 11am.  For more information, visit www.performanceriverside.org.