An original adaptation of the classic novel + Preshow concert of Pop + Sweet Tea Shakespeare’s signature sprinkle of the unexpected
Join us for a compelling new take on a beloved classic.
Sweet Tea Shakespeare is proud to present A Little Princess, an adaptation of the classic novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett. Directed and adapted for the stage by NC Playwright and Director Nathalie Ray, this production promises family-friendly entertainment in Downtown Raleigh with fun events held June 9-11, 16-18, and 23-25 at William Peace University. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2pm. There is a live, musical preshow thirty minutes prior to each performance.
Audiences can expect a delightful show filled with joyous music, nostalgic atmosphere, and a heartfelt story of friendship and belonging. Young audiences will follow along as Sarah Crewe faces adversity in her journey from privilege to poverty – but discovers that her true strength comes from within. This timeless tale reminds us that no matter our circumstance we are all capable of finding courage, love, and resilience.
More About A Little Princess
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Sweet Tea Shakespeare audiences can enjoy a new take on Francis Hodgson Burnett’s A Little Princess with our original adaptation in this production. The play, created by Nathalie Ray and Maneesha Lassiter, deals with the colonial storylines in the original novel. The play has a consciously diverse cast that includes traditionally “white” roles, in order to ensure representation for everyone. Additionally, the play delves deeper into characters of color to give them more significance and depth. It explores universal themes related to post-colonial societies and focuses on women’s voices.
The play also examines complicated relationships between classmates, teachers, and friends. Set in late-1800s England, Sara Crewe, the joyful daughter of the wealthy Captain Jack Crewe, enrolls in Miss Minchin’s lavish boarding school while her father is away in India. At the end of her extravagant eleventh birthday party, a tragedy occurs, leaving Sara orphaned and destitute. Now a pauper, Sara is forced to become a maid to her former classmates, under the oppressive watch of Miss Minchin. Using her imagination and unwavering kindness, Sara learns how to cope with her new circumstances, while showing us all what it truly means to be a princess.
Join us in Downtown Raleigh this summer for an unforgettable theatrical experience! Spend a few hours with Sweet Tea Shakespeare and let A Little Princess bring out the childlike wonder and joy in you! Tickets are available now – don’t miss it!
More About The Sweet Tea Shakespeare Experience
Content Note Guide
This play contains:
* Mention of physical, emotional & verbal abuse
* Depiction of bullying
* Mentions of death by illness
* Themes of discrimination
* Simulated physical violence against children
Additional questions regarding content can be directed to info@sweetteashakespeare.com
Preshow with Live Music & More
Most of our in-person and full-length online productions feature preshow entertainment with live music featuring our house band, The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers (also known as “WOCO”). Along with music, enjoy plenty of warm hospitality and ways to engage, from bidding on special seating, which we call “Chair Paravel,” to adorning Sweet Tea Shakespeare swag available for purchase, to yard games and activities.
Accessibility
William Peace University / Leggett Theater
Performances take place in Leggett Theater on the second floor of William Peace University’s historic Main Building at 15 E Peace Street in downtown Raleigh. Elevators are available to the second floor. Parking may be found in public lots at Peace after business hours near the corner of Peace and Blount Streets, or on Halifax Street near Seaboard Station. No food or drink unless otherwise noted. Seating is available on stage in plastic folding chairs and in some of the customary theater seats. Patrons should expect to experience somewhat uneven historic brick pathways. The performance space is accessible via stairs or ramp and very small elevator. Full restroom facilities are available.
Snacks and light refreshments (non-alcoholic) are available for purchase.
Streaming
Streaming (recorded) tickets are available now. On-demand viewing links will be sent to streaming buyers and Patreon Members when available.
Contact Information
Call 910-420-4384 (available 1 hour prior to the performance until 30 minutes into the performance) or email tickets@sweetteashakespeare.com.
Support
This production is sponsored by a grant from Manbites Dog Theater.
Mission
Sweet Tea Shakespeare gathers diverse communities around a common table to delight in the magic of story, song, and stagecraft.
Become a Sweet Tea Shakespeare Member
Monthly and annual members receive special advance ticket rates, complimentary tickets, complimentary ticket exchanges, stickers, totes, and other sweet merchandise, and much more. For information on becoming a Sweet Tea Shakespeare Member go to patreon.com/sweetteashakes.
Events in Raleigh | Downtown Raleigh | Theatre in North Carolina | Things to do in Raleigh NC
Stuff That Happens in A Little Princess
- A Little Princess is a stage adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic novel, first published in 1905.
- The story follows the adventures of Sara Crewe, a young girl who is sent from India to attend a prestigious boarding school in London.
- Sara’s father is a wealthy businessman, and she is used to a life of luxury, but her circumstances change dramatically when her father dies suddenly and she is left penniless.
- Despite her hardships, Sara remains determined to remain a “princess” in her heart and to treat others with kindness and generosity.
- The play features a cast of memorable characters, including Miss Minchin, the cruel headmistress of the boarding school, and Becky, a servant girl who becomes Sara’s closest friend.
- The set and costumes evoke the rich and colorful world of Victorian England, as well as the more spartan surroundings of Sara’s attic room.
- The play explores themes of resilience, friendship, and the power of imagination to overcome adversity.
- A Little Princess is a timeless story that will delight audiences of all ages, with its message of hope and optimism in the face of hardship.
