That most such stories cast ghosts as fearsome speaks to our lamentable tendency to approach the unfamiliar and the unknown - death, of course, being the ultimate unknown - with fear rather than with openminded, openhearted curiosity. That, perhaps, is why ghost tales are among the most universal and perennial fixtures of all mythologies and storytelling traditions - the very notion of a ghost welcomes a point of presence with life and death simultaneously. Tickets can be purchased by calling the box office at 77 or online at is our friend precisely because it brings us into absolute and passionate presence with all that is here, that is natural, that is love,” Rilke wrote in contemplating how mortality expands our aliveness. For children 12 and under, performance tickets include access to the KIDSPOT area on Feb. 17 and 24. Performances will be: February 15, 22 & 23 at 10 a.m.

The Leo creative team includes: Emily Perry (scenic design), Anna Hillbery (costume design), Sarah Eliot (lighting design), Andrew Stroud (sound design), and Alex Kesner (stage manager). Shivam Patel (Ruffs, The Priest), Chris Robertson (Dad, Vinnie, Dragon), Alissa Walker (The Boy, Officer Vitale, Mews), and Kimmy Zerega (Leo). The Leo cast includes: Sydnee Elder (Mom, Mimi), Najha Kay Forbey (Jane, The Scientist). “This is a fun bright story that also has a dragon fight, sneak thieves breaking in, dancing and a multi-media set. You'll come out with a real live friend.”

“If you've ever felt invisible and just wanted a real friend, Leo understands,” said Clifton, who also serves as director and musical director. This whole thing is exciting to me.”Ĭlifton, Riverside Theatre’s resident Music Director, wrote all the original songs for the hour-long show, which also includes musical underscoring throughout the production. I wanted to take some of the storytelling principles from those classic books I loved and make a story that felt contemporary, too. “I’m so impressed with the team who worked to make this musical,” said Barnett “Leo was influenced by certain character-centered picture books from the mid-20th century, especially Madeleine.

“By creating original works, this new division will expand Riverside Theatre’s mission in providing a total theater arts experience for children and adults.” “Riverside Theatricals is a very exciting venture,” said Riverside Theatre Producing Artistic Director Allen Cornell. The show features nine original songs written by Ken Clifton and a libretto by Clifton and Ian Thompson. And that’s when their friendship and fun-filled adventures begin. Invisible and lonely, he meets Jane, a kid with tremendous imagination and an open heart who invites him to play.

Leo a ghost story