Bud, Not Buddy  follows the journey of a young African-American orphan as he searches for his father. Clues kept in a suitcase lead him to adventures in Depression-era Michigan, where he finds community among a group of jazz musicians and, ultimately, an unexpected sense of home. Performances are Jan. 12-Feb. 24, 2013.

Based on the book by Gary D. Schmidt, performances are 10 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays and 2 p.m. Saturdays from Jan. 19-March 2 (no performances Jan. 26-Feb. 2). Recommended for children 9 and older.

The Cat in the Hat is the perfect friend for a boring rainy afternoon. From games and mischief to Thing One and Thing Two, The Cat brings all sorts of trouble to this gray day--but will Sally and her brother be able to explain the mess to Mother? Performances run Jan. 26-June 9, 2013.

When happily ever after isn't what he expected, the Frog Prince heads out for a new adventure. While searching for his true amphibian self, he meets witches from Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Hansel and Gretel, and Cinderella's Fairy Godmother. Performances run Jan. 26-June 9, 2013.

Musical that chronicles the sociological effects upon youth from fatherless homes and how they manage to uplift themselves in spite of it. Kwanzaa week holiday performances are Dec. 26, 27, 28. Regular run is Jan. 12-June 1, 2013.

A burglar is at large in Boogle Bay and the prime suspect is the ghost of the infamous pirate Blackeye Doodle. Hungry for adventure, young Otto and his Uncle Tooth set out to capture the mischievous thief and recover the stolen goods. Performances are 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays from Jan. 12-Feb. 17. One hour before each performance, for an extra $10, kids can participate in Stories Come Alive! Hour, an interactive storytelling session followed by on-your-feet theatre games to explore the characters, plot, and themes of the book

This inspirational dance theater piece tells the story of Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan, specifically revealing how Anne, Helen's teacher, led her from a state of almost feral wildness into education, activism and intellectual celebrity. Audio descriptions are available.

This fresh version of the timeless tale contains songs, dances and puppetry. Performances run 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays from Jan. 20-Feb. 23.

Ever wonder what Cinderella's stepsisters were thinking? What happens when the tooth fairy retires? How would you feel if you were the emergency operator in Neverland? This sketch comedy revue entirely devised and created by a youth ensemble takes a second look at some beloved stories and characters. Performances are 4 p.m. Feb. 16, 17, and 24.

In honor of Carnaval this year the Evanston Escola de Samba is having a big celebration. In addition to music and dancing, there will be crafts, face painting, dance and drumming lessons.