Photo Flash: Theatre at the Center Announces Inspiring Theatre for Young Audiences Production of FREEDOM TRAIN

Freedom Train, the thrilling story of bravery, takes over the Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences stage Tuesday, January 19 through Friday, January 22. Freedom Train is the story of self-sacrifice, dedication and survival, laced with warmth and a sense of humor that celebrates the human spirit - a universal story for all. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Indiana.

Freedom Train follows the dramatic story of Harriet Tubman, a slave off of a Maryland plantation whose bravery took her across the lands to freedom. Her route later became known as the famous Underground Railroad, which is now familiar to all as the passage used by hundreds of people to escape slavery. Freedom Train takes the audience through creek beds and over hills in the dark of night as Harriet tells her story about how she, and subsequently other slaves, escaped in a fascinating series of highly theatrical scenes that use dance, dialogue, and music of the period.

Additionally, groups are invited to enter the Freedom Train essay contest for a chance to win a $100 early investor account sponsored by Citizen's Financial Bank, Munster, IN.

Freedom Train is a musical with a book by the late Marvin Gordon that incorporates traditional African-American spirituals, including "Follow the Drinking Gourd," "Steal Away," "Wade in the Water," and "Good News, the Chariot's A-Comin'," all arranged by Garret Morris and Ron Burton. The production was originally staged by Glo Ria Jones Schultz, and is currently directed by Joy Kelly. The scenery was designed by Hal Tiné. This 60-minute musical is recommended for audiences age 8 and up. Freedom Train is Theatreworks USA's longest-running production, having been on national tour since Fall 1974.

Founded in 1991, Theatre at the Center is a year-round professional, equity theater at its home, The Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road, Munster, Indiana. Theatre at the Center is conveniently located off I-80/94, just 35 minutes from downtown Chicago.

Group performances are January 19 through January 22 at 9:30 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. Group prices are $6.50, adult tickets are $8.00 and groups 100 or more students are only $5.50 per student. For every 25 paid student reservations, one complimentary ticket will be issued. An activity guide is also available for groups. IndividuAl Prices are children, $7.00, and adults, $8.50. To purchase group tickets or individual tickets call 219.836.3258. For more information on Theatre at the Center, visit www.TheatreAtTheCenter.com.

Photo credit: Jean-Marie Guyaux

Dale Hall, James Alexander, Raquel Polite, Dorian Gray Ross, Susan Spain