CSUSB’s Department of Theatre Arts and the Ellen Weisser Endowed Theatre Showcase present the puppet-filled musical “Anansi’s Carnival Adventure” by Alberto Justiniano, with music composed by Gary Rue.

When the forest surrounding the small Caribbean town of San Pedro is suddenly sold off to developers, it’s up to young Felipe, his friend, the Afro-Latina spider Anansi, and an eclectic mix of wild animal friends to seek out Hurracan, the God of Wind, to cast the developers out and save their forest home!

Children of all ages will enjoy this enchanting, environmentally conscious production, enhanced with song, interpretive dance, colorful costumes, elaborate masks, stunningly painted set pieces and animated projections that bring this magnificent story to life!

“I was looking for a production that would bring families together to experience theatre. This play offered characters from Taino Indian culture, African folk traditions and a setting in the forests of Puerto Rico,” said Kathryn Ervin, CSUSB professor of theatre arts who is directing the show. “Also, the play is set around The Carnival Masquerade. Design faculty member Andre Harrington has been researching and studying carnival traditions in the Caribbean, England and the Americas for many years. This play offered an opportunity for masks and puppets and was a perfect contrast to the more realistic explorations of our productions this season.”

“Anansi’s Carnival Adventure” runs April 28 to May 7.

Tickets can be purchased from the CSUSB Theatre Arts Box Office or online at theatre.csusb.edu. Ticket prices are $6 for students and individuals under 17; $12 for faculty, staff, senior citizens and military/first responders; and $15 for adults 18-64. Group rate discounts are available.

All performances take place in the Ronald E. Barnes Theatre on the CSUSB campus. Parking at CSUSB is $6 Monday-Friday and $3 on the weekend.

All production dates and times are subject to change to coincide with any health and safety guidelines established by the CDC. Follow the theatre’s Facebook account for the most up-to-date information.

For additional information, please contact the Theatre Box Office at (909) 537-5884 or theatrearts@csusb.edu.

Anansi's Carnival Adventure flyer