Big River August 12, 2005

Adapted from Mark Twain's classic novel The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, Big River won seven Tony Awards in 1985, including Best Musical, Best Book and Best Score.

Set in the 1840s, Big River sweeps you down the mighty Mississippi as the irrepressible Huck helps his friend Jim, a slave, escape to freedom. The story of their journey downstream captures the rhythms, sounds and spirit of life on the big river as you are reintroduced to the unforgettable characters from the novel, including the Widow Douglas and her stern sister, Miss Watson; the uproarious King and Duke, who may or may not be as harmless as they seem; Huck's partner in crime, Tom Sawyer, and their rowdy gang of pals; Huck's drunken father, the sinister Pap Finn; and the lovely Mary Jane Wilkes and her trusting family.

E. Kirby Jr. directs deaf, hard-of-hearing and hearing actors as they perform together in a synchronized ballet of speaking and signing. Propelled by an award-winning score by Grammy Award-winner Roger Miller ("Dang Me," "King of the Road"), this amazing journey of friendship and self-discovery is a uniquely presented theatrical celebration of pure Americana.

Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for students/seniors with valid I.D., and $15 for groups of 10 or more.

This show is part of the PAC Trust's annual SummerStage Festival.