LEWISTON – The National Marionette Theatre, one of the oldest continually running touring marionette theaters in the United States, will bring “Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves” and “Hansel and Gretel” to Lewiston Middle School.

Founded in 1967, this award-winning company has been entertaining audiences worldwide for more than 40 years, using hand-carved marionettes and exquisitely crafted full-stage sets.

In past years, the company has performed “Alice in Wonderland,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Peter Pan” and other favorites in Lewiston.

In “Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves” a poor woodcutter discovers an enchanted cave used by thieves and has an adventure of a lifetime. Uttering the magic words “open sesame,” Ali Baba enters the secret cave of the 40 thieves and discovers their hidden treasure. Thus begins the adventure story from the book “The Arabian Nights.”

“Ali Baba” is suitable for children 6 years and older. The performance will be at 7 p.m. Friday, April 2. Advance tickets are $7, $5 for students and seniors.

The story of “Hansel and Gretel” has captured the imaginations of audiences for generations. In National Marionette Theatre’s newest production, two master puppeteers will bring the most famous of the Grimm Brother’s stories to life. Featured will be the music of Engelbert Humperdinck.

Geared to audiences of all ages, “Hansel and Gretel” will be presented at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 3. Advance tickets are $7, $5 for students and seniors. Tickets may be purchased online at www.laarts.org or by calling 782-7228. Lewiston Middle School is at 75 Central Ave.

Ali Baba enters the cave of the Forty Thieves and finds it filled with treasure in the National Marionette Theatre’s production of “Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves.”


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