Junior Theatre presents Geppetto’s side of the story

Encounter the Blue Fairy, Stromboli and a lively cast of characters as Geppetto journeys beyond his village toy shop to discover what makes an ideal child in the San Diego Junior Theatre production of Disney’s “My Son Pinocchio: Geppetto’s Musical Tale.”

The show opens on July 2 and runs through July 18 at the Casa del Prado Theatre in Balboa Park, part of Junior Theatre’s 63rd season. Performances are at 7 p.m. Fridays and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. There will be an ASL-interpreted performance on July 17.

With music by Grammy Award winner Stephen Schwartz, audiences will hear a score of new songs in addition to the animated film classics “When You Wish Upon a Star” and “I’ve Got No Strings.” The show is directed by Teri Ang, a Junior Theatre alumna.

This production is recommended for all ages. Tickets are $8-$14 at (619) 239-8355 or

San Diego Junior Theatre began in 1948 as a program of The Old Globe Theatre. Today, it operates as an independent, nonprofit organization — the oldest continuing children’s theater program in the country. Classes for young people interested in theater arts are offered at Casa del Prado, downtown Chula Vista and at the La Jolla YMCA Firehouse.