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This is Sadie gets theatrical treatment in NYC

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This is Sadie is coming to the stage. The New York City Children’s Theater will produce a stage version of Sara O’Leary’s story of a little girl with a big imagination, set to premiere in 2018. The book has garnered universal praise for the gorgeous illustrations by Julie Morstad, its lovely text, and spirited protagonist.

The NYCCT (formerly called Making Books Sing) is a non-profit theatre company whose mandate is to “promote children’s literacy and social development through professional theater productions and arts-in-education programs.” Co-artistic director Emma Halpern says the company was drawn to the book because they believe it will hold wide appeal for kids and adults.

This is Sadie tells such a simple, elegant story about the power of imagination. We love how Sadie’s creativity transcends time, space, gender, and even the limitations of the human form, and we envision a dance piece where different musical themes and soundscapes help to bring the worlds that Sadie creates to life,” says Halpern.

For her part, O’Leary is pretty chuffed about the whole situation. “It really is wonderful news,” says the author. “I’m thrilled about their initial concept for the show. I’m very interested in the process of adaptation and can’t wait to see what comes of this.”

Though O’Leary has worked in theatre in the past, she will not be involved directly with the production. “My main involvement will be going down to New York to see the show when it opens.”