Pied Piper: A Musical

A Classic Restored to Life

The Pied Piper of Hamlin

In 2000, PNT started out doing classic works that the family could enjoy together. For twenty five years we've adapted works by the world's greatest writers - Moliere, Shakespeare, Goldoni, etc. - introducing characters, plots and language, performed by professional actors with Broadway credits, in 60 to 90 minutes, to make them user-friendly. The idea is that parents, grandparents can introduce their children to wonderful stories, and also the unique pleasure of "live theater" - sharing space with live actors who can actually respond to your laughter and applause.

Brothers Grimm

The Brothers Grimm, of course, deserve their own proper introduction, and our performances of "Goldilocks and the Three Bears" and "Hansel and Gretel" brought screams of interactive delight from all ages. (A summer of work with Jim Henson opened my eyes to the universal appeal of classic stories.) "Hansel and Gretel" took my thoughts into a slightly darker area, and led me to address one of my favorite tales, "The Pied Piper of Hamlin".

It's a dark tale based on a 13th Century legend with various possible sources. A Children's Crusade? A plague that attacks children? A mysterious piper lures children away from their parents in an act of revenge. The Grimms can be grim, but this was a bit much.

Marla Ruzicka and C.I.V.I.C Worldwide

But then I came across the inspiring story of Marla Ruzicka, a fearless young woman from Lakeport, California, who devoted her life to helping the destitute throughout the world - Kenya, Cuba, Guatamala, Nigeria- fighting to establish her own foundation, the Center for Civilians in Conflict, specifically dedicated to assisting civilian women and children in war zones.

Marla Ruzicka

Marla was killed while on duty, by a car bomb, in 2005, on a road outside of Baghdad. She was 29 years old. She was a vibrant, enthusiastic activist who fervently believed that communities and their governments have a moral responsibility to protect their civilian populations.

Suddenly a way into "The Pied Piper" made sense to me.

People and Rats

Our story is a comedy, a cartoonish musical with a Brechtian undertow. It's not "Princess and Dragon" theater, so we do suggest families with grandkids over 8. Gustav the Rat, in trench coat and hat, introduces the Klutz family and the Butz family, Hamlin citizens who are very successful making their cheese. So successful, it's all they care about. So obsessed with their cheese they have no time for their children.

By the River Weser, the children stumble upon a homeless woman from a war-torn land who plays a magical flute. She actually listens to their frustration, and agrees to speak to the town on their behalf.

We're back, with your help

The PNT Company is delighted to be back in a "full production" after years of pandemic isolation. Small theaters have been extremely hard hit, with 50% of Los Angeles companies disappearing. Audiences and funding have dropped precipitously. But with your help we're coming back. Sharing live theater, and classic stories, has got to be preserved. - ld

Musical Numbers: "Hamlintown", "You Kids Don't Know What's Best", "Da Rats!" "That's Just What Friends are For", "Dey Tink Deir Cheese Don't Stink", "Fondue", "Kinderland".

Tickets here!