Babes in Toyland opens at the Growing Stage

NETCONG — The Growing Stage on Route 183 in Netcong presenting its original musical production of Babes In Toyland from Nov. 25 to Dec. 18 with performances on Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 4 p.m. The stage production was adapted from the popular 1934 MGM classic which featured the famed comedy team Laurel and Hardy and was originally inspired by the Victor Hugo operetta of the same name. The Growing Stage’s work was conceived by company founder and Executive Director Stephen L. Fredericks and artist in residence Perry Arthur Kroeger, who wrote the adaptation and lyrics that have been set to the music of Victor Hugo. Fredericks is directing the production. The production’s story line loosely follows the movie that inspired it. Something is amiss in the Land of Make Believe. Barnaby is threatening Mother Goose with eviction unless her daughter, Bo Peep, marries him. One of the Three Little Pigs is missing and on top of that, even Christmas is in doubt. Who can possibly save the day? Babes In Toyland features many of the professional artists that are familiar to the Growing Stage audiences. Danny Campos and Robert Mintz bring to life the roles of Tweedle-Dee and Tweedle Dum. Jenna Morris portrays Mother Goose with Ryan Malyar as the evil Barnaby. Rosemary Glennon debuts as Bo Peep alongside Will James Nash who is making his debut as Tom-Tom. Rounding out the cast are 23 community artists of all ages who are sharing their talents to make this a very special holiday treat for the entire family.