Children's show, 'Just A Dream: The Green Play' this weekend

Augustana College will present a play for children: "Just A Dream: The Green Play," based on the book by Chris Van Allsburg, at 1:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 1-2, in the Brunner Theatre Center. 

Van Allsburg is  best known for "Jumanji" and "The Polar Express."

His story is about Walter, a 10 year-old litterbug who falls asleep and travels to the future which is filled with trash and pollution rather than the robots and nifty gadgets he was expecting. Although the play deals with the very real issue of taking care of the environment, the story is told in a fun, child-friendly way with comic bits, and catchy music. The future Walter dreams of is a grim one, but the message he receives is hopeful: It's not too late to change.

"It's the perfect blend of silliness and substance," said director Jackie Wynes McCall '98. "Kids will get the message, while being entertained at the same time."

The play features Augustana students Jonathan Meir, Aubrey Lyon, Jacob Kilburg, Rami Halabi and Elise Campbell.

Augustana student Lauren Davis serves as stage manager.  The show also will feature student designers Emma Brutman (set) and Jake Phillips (lighting).

Augustana faculty/staff involved in the project are Andy Gutshall, technical director, and Ellen Dixon, costume shop supervisor.

Costuming for the production is being designed by Rowan Crow '16, who also designed last year's children's show.

Tickets are $11 for the public, $9 for senior citizens, students, and Augustana faculty/staff, and $5 for Augustana students and children ages 12 and under. Tickets can be purchased at the door, or through the Augustana Ticket Office, 309-794.7306, or augustana.edu/tickets.