The Public Theatre will present Figures of Speech Theatre in its award-winning production of “The Beanstalk Variations” at 1 p.m. Sunday, May 22.

Actors Michael Rafkin and John Farrell will be joined onstage by a cast of hand-carved characters, in this inventive adaptation of the story of “Jack and the Beanstalk.”

Jack has a giant problem, and a Freudian therapist to solve it. Every night, Jack dreams he’s onstage playing a harp when suddenly an enormous hand crashes through the ceiling and snatches him away. What can this possibly mean? Guided by the eccentric Dr. Blaukopf, Jack gives reality the Freudian slip and discovers that you can live in a fairy tale after all.

Fast-paced and funny for the kids, Figures of Speech Theatre is so intelligent and witty it keeps the adults entertained as well. Approaching Jack’s three ascents to the land of the giants as an empowering journey, Figures of Speech Theatre explores Jack’s victory over the giant as a triumph over one’s own greed. Directed by Avner “the Eccentric” Eisenberg of Broadway fame, this inventive adaptation is filled with his humor and physical comedy.

This multilayered musical production features songs such as “FeeFoFoFum Means I Love You” and Jack’s cowboy-style “Lament for Milky White.” Music was composed and recorded by award-winning artist Heath Allen of Philadelphia.

Figures of Speech Theatre is an internationally acclaimed, professional touring theater based in Freeport. The company recently returned from a 24-show run at the Smithsonian Institution and a six-month residency in Japan. In 2001, following its successful run at The Kennedy Center, “The Beanstalk Variations” received the UNIMA Citation of Excellence, the highest award in American puppet theater.

Tickets may be reserved by calling the box office, 782-3200. Prices are $11 for children under 12, $14 for seniors and students, and $16 for adults. The Public Theatre is located at Maple and Lisbon streets in downtown Lewiston.<.000>