UpStage Artists Brings Family Fun to the Stage with Babes in Toyland

Stacey Saunders, music director and choreographer for UpStage Artists’ Babes in Toyland, works with young cast members as they prepare to bring the family musical to life December 4–13 at Emmanuel United Methodist Church in Beltsville.

Mother Goose characters, a scheming villain and a magical world of toys will come to life when UpStage Artists presents Babes in Toyland, The Musical, December 4–13 at Emmanuel United Methodist Church in Beltsville.

Featuring children ages 8–15 alongside adult performers, this community theater production brings generations together for a family show filled with music, comedy and adventure. It offers parents, grandparents and children an opportunity to enjoy live theater together during the holiday season.

The story follows Mistress Mary Quite Contrary and her sweetheart, Alan, as the villainous Barnaby plots to keep them apart. His schemes set off an adventure from Mother Goose Land, through the dangerous Spider Forest and into mysterious Toyland. Along the way, audiences meet familiar nursery rhyme characters, bumbling troublemakers and the Master Toymaker with his quirky assistants. With a book by Rebecca Ryland and music and lyrics by Bill Francoeur, the musical offers a playful journey through a storybook world.

Directed by Rick Bergmann, with music direction and choreography by Stacey Saunders, the production highlights the talents of local children, teens and adults. The cast’s mix of ages reflects the spirit of community theater: people coming together to create something their neighbors and families can enjoy.

Evening performances are December 4, 5, 11 and 12 at 7:30 p.m. Matinees are December 5, 6 and 13 at 2 p.m. All performances take place at Emmanuel United Methodist Church, 11416 Cedar Lane, Beltsville, MD 20705.

Individual tickets are $15. Families and groups can save with a bundle of five tickets for $50—just $10 per ticket, a savings of $5 per ticket and $25 overall.

Whether audiences are cheering on a young performer or discovering Toyland for the first time, Babes in Toyland promises a festive outing for the whole family.

For tickets and more information, visit www.upstageartists.com.

Produced by special arrangement with Pioneer Drama Service, Inc., Englewood, Colorado.