Muncie Civic Theater Presents “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane”

“The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane” Nov. 9-11 and 16-18. Photo provided.“The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane” Nov. 9-11 and 16-18. Photo provided.

By: Michelle Kinsey—

Muncie, Indiana – What can a self-centered toy rabbit teach us about love?

Quite a bit, actually.

Muncie Civic Theatre is presenting “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane” Nov. 9-11 and 16-18 in the Casazza Family Studio. Friday and Saturday shows will be at 7 p.m. and Sunday matinees will begin at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $13 for adults and $10 for students.

 Edward Tulane is a vain, cold-hearted toy china rabbit that embarks on a life-changing journey that takes him from the bottom of the sea to the top of a garbage dump. Along the way, he learns what love is, what it feels like to lose that love, and how to find the courage to love again.

 “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane” is based on the book by Kate DiCamillo, the award-winning author of “The Tale of Despereaux” and “Because of Winn Dixie.”

 “It is a powerful emotional journey and has a simply wonderful ending,” said Andrea Replogle, who plays “The Traveler,” or the narrator, in the play, as well as a handful of other roles. “I love the story!” she added.

 (And, no, we’re not going to give away that wonderful ending.)

 Director Bridget Duggleby hopped at the chance to be a part of this show. “When you find a heartwarming story – that can reach a large range of audiences – by a renowned children’s author, you don’t hesitate to be part of the process,” she said. “This story rises above a typical children’s story as it captivates all ages through the tale of a young rabbit that transforms because of his life experiences.”

 The studio space, Duggleby said, is the “perfect space” for this production. “The audience will get to truly feel a part of the experience,” she said. “The story is told in a way that is powerful, yet sincere.”

 Muncie Civic will also present the show in front of hundreds of students during several school matinees on the theater’s main stage.

 “I hope our audiences leave with a feeling of appreciation for all life has given them,” Duggleby said. “I hope audiences will be able to identify with the rabbit, his joys and his pains, and ultimately his journey. I hope people are able to celebrate their own life and tell their own story.”

 For tickets or more information, call (765) 288-PLAY or go to www.munciecivic.org.

 

“The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane” is made possible with support from the Cathleen Casazza Memorial Fund.