CSU presents 'The Velveteen Rabbit'

Brenda May Ito says all of the members chosen to be in the cast of Columbus State University's theater production of "The Velveteen Rabbit" were already familiar with the story, some saying it was their favorite childhood book.

It is also an Ito favorite. The CSU professor said she has read the book to her children and this is the second time she has directed the play.

"It is just a wonderful story," she said.

The play will be presented at CSU's RiverSide Theatre, with shows at 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. It can also be seen Sunday at 2 p.m.

The 'Valveteen Rabbit" is a tale of a toy rabbit given as a gift to a boy and how the child's unconditional love allows it to become real. The story is about love and sacrifice and accepting yourself the way you are.

"It is about what is real to a child," Ito said. "It is about friendship."

She said both young children and older people who have read the book will enjoy the show.

"This show is for the entire family," Ito said.

Members of the cast are theater majors at the university. Cecil Butler plays the boy and Jessica Tasse is the Velveteen Rabbit. Others in the cast include Natalie Brock, Blake Lowry and Hannah Johnson.

The play is an adaptation by Scott Davidson of the book "The Velveteen Rabbit (or How Toys Become Real)" by Margery Williams, which was published in 1922.

It was the first children's book Williams had written after several adult stories.

Where is the show?

"The Velveteen Rabbit" is in the Columbus State University's Riverside Theatre, 6 West 10th St.

How much are tickets?

Adult tickets are $10. Children tickets are $5. Alumni, military and seniors get in for $8.

Where can I get tickets?

The box office is open Monday-Friday from noon to 6 p.m. Call 706-507-8444.

Where can I get information?

Visit http:theatre.columbusstate.edu.

This story was originally published September 2, 2015 at 9:06 PM with the headline "CSU presents 'The Velveteen Rabbit' ."