Lifeline Presents FLIGHT OF THE DODO World Premiere 12/20

Chicago's Lifeline Theatre KidSeries presents the world premiere musical “Flight of the Dodo,” based on the hilarious new story by Peter Brown, adapted by Lifeline ensemble member Robert Kauzlaric, music by Lifeline ensemble member Victoria DeIorio, and directed by Lifeline ensemble member Paul S. Holmquist.

FLIGHT OF THE DODO opens December 20, 2008, and closes February 22, 2009. Previews on December 20 at 2 p.m., and December 21 at 11 a.m. Holiday Schedule: December 20 at 2 p.m., December 21 at 11 a.m., December 27 at 2 p.m., December 28 at 11 a.m.,  January 3 at 2 p.m., January 4 at 11 a.m. Regular run from January 10-February 22, 2009-Saturdays at 1 p.m.; Sundays at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Tired of getting pooped on? So is Penguin, when one too many geeses (or is it gooses?) uses his new tux coat as a target. Together with his flightless friends Ostrich, Kiwi andCassowary,he takes to the skies to teach those geese a lesson!  Take flight with this misfit crew in their hot air balloon named Dodo on this scatological journey, as they learn that to realize our dreams we have to look beyond our differences and work together. “Flight of the Dodo” runs in repertory with the family hit “Snowflake Tim's Big Holiday Adventure” during the holiday season.  This production is appropriate for children ages five to ten, and runs about one hour with no intermission.

Author/illustrator Brown will be at Lifeline on Sunday, January 11, 2009, to sign copies of his books (on sale in the lobby) at the Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago, IL 60626. Parking available (street and lot - see below); CTA accessible (Red Line Morse stop/buses) Free designated parking lot west of the theatre at the NE corner of Morse and Ravenswood, about six blocks/ten minute walk Handicapped accessible

The Lifeline Holiday Party will be on Saturday, January 3, 2009, 12 noon - 3 p.m. Family fun for kids and adults includes lunch, drama games, crafts and a “Flight of the Dodo” show.  $25 per person for party and “Dodo” ($15 each for Lifeline subscribers) - attendees can also see “Snowflake Tim” at 11 a.m. for $12 (entire day consists of “Tim” show, party and events, then “Dodo” show).  Reservations recommended at 773-761- 4477.  For tickets, call 773-761-4477. Tickets are $12 for both children and adults for all shows. Pay-what-you-can tickets (half-hour before the show -subject to availability). Group rates and other discounts also available on request. Party room available for full-service birthday and special event parties.

Cast members include ensemble member Patrick Blashill (Penguin weekends), and guest artists John Ferrick (Penguin weekdays), Sienna Harris (Ostrich), Jenny Lamb (Cassowary), Eliza Stoughton (Kiwi), Jennifer Reeves Wilson (Geese, etc.) and understudy Danielle Cochrane.

Staff includes Lifeline ensemble members Robert Kauzlaric (Adapter), Paul S. Holmquist (Director) and Victoria DeIorio (Original Music, Music Director, Sound), with guest artists Chelsea Warren (Scenic and Property Design), Seth Reinick (Lighting Design), Kimberly Morris (Costume and Puppet Design) and Jessica Wright (Stage Manager).

NEXT: KidSeries shows include “Snowflake Tim's Big Holiday Adventure,” December 13, 2008-January 4, 2009 (opens 12/14/08, 11 a.m.); and “Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle,” March 14- May 3, 2009 (opens 3/15/09, 1 p.m.).

Now in its 26th season, Lifeline Theatre is known for specializing in original literary adaptations. Its ensemble of artists uses imaginative, unconventional staging to portray sprawling stories in an intimate space. Lifeline is committed to promoting the arts in its Rogers Park neighborhood and is an anchor of the Glenwood Avenue Arts District.  We aspire to create art that is relevant to our culturally diverse, increasingly youthful neighborhood.  Lifeline Theatre - Big Stories, Up Close.

Lifeline Theatre's programs are partially supported by The Albert Pick, Jr. Fund; Alphawood Foundation; The Chicago Community Trust; CityArts 3 grant from the City of ChicagoDepartment of Cultural Affairs; Elizabeth F. Cheney Foundation; Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation; The Grover Hermann Foundation; Illinois Arts Council, a state agency; Lloyd A. Fry Foundation; MacArthur Fund for Arts and Culture at Prince; Mayer and Morris Kaplan Family Foundation; Polk Bros. Foundation; S&C Foundation; and the annual support of businesses and individuals.

Lifeline Theatre is located at 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago. Parking available (street and lot); CTA accessible (Red Line Morse stop/buses). Free designated parking lot west of the theatre at the NE corner of Morse and Ravenswood with free shuttle service before and after the show. Handicapped accessible.

For general theatre info, call 773-761-4477 or visit www.lifelinetheatre.com.