More than 10,000 children will attend free live theater performances this summer through a series presented by Theatreworks Inc. and sponsored by Citi.
This week's production, "Florida Treasures," began on Monday a four-day run in the Hicks Auditorium at the Main Library Conference Center.
Theatreworks Executive Director Rita Kent said the free summer theater program is in its 17th season and it meets a need in the community.
"So many children live in families that would never be able to afford the opportunity to experience live theater. It's also a great summer activity," said Kent.
In addition to title sponsor Citi, the summer series is supported by Robert and Thelma Nied, the Kirbo Charitable Foundation, the Schultz Foundation, the Carl S. Swisher Foundation and the Gannett Foundation.
Additional funding is provided by a City Cultural Services Grant administered by the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, Kent said.
"Florida Treasures" is a two-person show performed by Noel Holland and Don Gruel, founders of Atlantic Coast Theatre, based in Champions Gate, near Orlando.
The play tells the story of two tourists who find a treasure chest filled with historical artifacts. Their discovery transports the characters back in time for a journey through 500 years of Florida history including Ponce de Leon's explorations and the founding of St. Augustine.
The Florida Theatre and the Friday Musicale in Riverside also are this summer's performance venues.
"We choose venues that are located in or near the urban core. That makes coming to a show convenient for people who use mass transit," said Kent.
Performances are scheduled at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. today, Wednesday and Thursday in the Hicks Auditorium.
Kent said a few seats still are available for each performance.
For more information about the summer theater series, visit theatreworks.com.
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