A Year with Frog and Toad

Music by Robert Reale
Book and Lyrics by Willie Reale
Based on the Books by Arnold Lobel
Directed by Sarah Hawkins Rusk

Performances: Oct. 27, 28, 29, & Nov. 3, 4, 5 2023

Times: Friday: 7:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 3 p.m.

Location: The Marlene Boll Theatre, 1401 Broadway Street, Detroit

Overview: Join the beloved characters of Arnold Lobel's classic children's book series in A Year with Frog and Toad, a heartwarming musical adventure that will delight audiences of all ages. Follow the charming duo Frog and Toad as they navigate the highs and lows of friendship throughout the seasons. From sledding on snowy hills to swimming in the summer sun, from raking autumn leaves to baking Christmas cookies, their year is filled with fun, laughter, and plenty of life lessons along the way. A Year with Frog and Toad is a delightful celebration of the joys of friendship and the beauty of nature.

Recommended for all ages.

A Year with Frog and Toad runs 75 minutes with no intermission.

Buy Tickets Here!

Special Events:

Friday, Oct. 27: Opening Night Performance & Reception. Sponsored by Thomas E. Page ’71, ’76
Sunday, Oct. 29: Story Magic: Stick around after the show for a chance for young authors to embrace their inner wordsmith, presented as part of the Detroit Theatre Discussion Project.
Friday, Nov. 3: Community Night: all tickets $15!
Friday, Nov. 3: Crafting Enchanting Worlds: Join local experts following the show for a discussion on writing children’s literature, presented as part of the Detroit Theatre Discussion Project.
Saturday, Nov. 4: Sensory Friendly/Relaxed Performance: Designed to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all audiences, this unique performance features adjusted lighting, reduced sound levels, and a supportive atmosphere to ensure a comfortable experience for individuals with sensitivities.
Sunday, Nov. 5: Closing Performance

All special events are open to the public.

Sensory-friendly/Relaxed Performance

The sensory-friendly / relaxed performance of A Year with Frog and Toad will be Saturday, Nov. 4 at 3 p.m.

What is a sensory-friendly/relaxed performance?

Sensory-friendly or relaxed performances aim to provide a performing arts experience tailored for individuals who face social, cognitive, and physical challenges leading to heightened sensory sensitivities.

Who should attend this performance?

Designed to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all audiences, this unique performance features adjusted lighting, reduced sound levels, and a supportive atmosphere to ensure a comfortable experience for individuals with sensitivities. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

What accommodations are available?

Lower sound and light levels.
House lights at a low level throughout the performance.
Audience members are welcome to stand, move around, and enter and leave the theatre as needed.
A designated calm area outside the theatre will be available.
Trained volunteers on hand.
Audience members are welcome to bring their own manipulatives, seat cushions, comfort objects, headphones, special snacks, and other support items to the show.
Characters will introduce themselves prior to the show.
A social narrative that portrays the theatre-going experience is available here.
The theatre will be open an extra thirty minutes prior to the start of the show for audience members.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

Contact Sarah Rusk at hawkinsk@udmercy.edu or call the Ticket Office at 313-993-3270.