Playhouse Jr. Presents SUESSICAL and DARK SIDE OF ZYLO'S MOON, 5/7

Point Park University's Playhouse Jr. presents the world premiere of THE DARK SIDE OF ZYLO'S MOON and the beloved children's musical Seussical at the Pittsburgh Playhouse May 7-9, 15-16 and 22-23. THE DARK SIDE OF ZYLO'S MOON is a science fiction tale written and directed by local playwright Yoli; SEUSSICAL features music by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and book by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens; Taavon Gamble directs.

THE DARK SIDY OF ZYLO'S MOON is the story of Dr. Recyclable, a Zylonian who recognizes the damaging effects of waste and pollution, and Lili Mini Boots Model #10, a robot who is thrown away because she is a girl. With the help of Dr. Recyclable and his greatest creation, a robot made from recycled materials called Steel Boy Robot, Lili travels through a black hole to save nature by recycling. An out of this world science fiction adventure, The Dark Side of Zylo's Moon shows how those who really care can make a difference.

Yoli has written and directed several plays and adaptations for Playhouse Jr., including Arlecchino and the Italian Clowns and last season's Five Children and It. She is also an author of children's novels, and recently won Mayhaven's Award for Children's Fiction for her novel Cruisin' Sarah.

SEUSSICAL is a fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza that brings to life all beloved Dr. Seuss friends. Bursting with frivolity and imagination, the colorful characters transport us from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus to the invisible world of the Whos. When Horton the Elephant finds himself faced with a real challenge, he must protect his tiny friend Jojo (and all the invisible Whos) from a world of naysayers and dangers, and he must guard an abandoned egg left to his care by the irresponsible Mayzie La Bird. Although Horton faces incredible obstacles, the valiant Gertrude McFuzz never loses faith in him. Ultimately, the powers of friendship, loyalty, family and community emerge triumphant in this beloved story for kids of all ages.

The Pittsburgh Playhouse is offering a special ticket deal for both productions during Mother's Day weekend; one free ticket will be given to each mom who is accompanied by a paid admission.

THE DARK SIDE OF ZYLO'S MOON and SEUSSICAL open with special performances on Friday, May 7 at 7 p.m. and run through Sunday, May 23, 2010. Performances will be held Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $7 and can be purchased by calling the Pittsburgh Playhouse box office at 412-621-4445 or online at www.pittsburghplayhouse.com.

Fieldtrips can be booked by calling the Pittsburgh Playhouse box office at 412-621-4445. Fieldtrip performances for THE DARK SIDE OF ZYLO'S MOON run May 6 - May 28 and for SEUSSICAL May 5 - 28. Fieldtrip shows are performed Tuesdays through Fridays at 10 a.m. Additional performances are held Wednesdays and Fridays at 12:30 p.m. These performances are open to school and community groups only; advanced reservations are required.