The world premiere musical “Looking for Home, A Story About the Orphan Trains,” debuts Nov. 4-13 at the Laguna Playhouse.
The play written by Mary Murfitt, who wrote a book by the same title, examines the historical transporting of orphaned children from the streets of New York City to the Great Plains by railroad. These orphan trains ran from 1856 to 1930 and it is estimated that over 200,000 children were relocated by the Children’s Aid Society or similar organizations.
The play follows the true story of 11 year-old Anna Hoffman and her siblings who were placed in a small town in Kansas in 1923. This is a story about courage and the healing powers that make a family home.
Directed by Donna Inglima with music and lyrics also by Murfitt, audiences will be treated to an educational and rich theatrical experience with musical direction set by Diane King Vann and choreography by K.C. Gussler.
Inglima says, “It is a new traditional musical theatre piece with depth and characters that tell a real story about American history. It is an honor to bring Mary Murfitt’s new musical to The Laguna Playhouse.”
Performances are Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Single tickets are $18 to $20. The show is suitable for ages 5 and up. To purchase tickets, call (949) 497-2787, or visit www.LagunaPlayhouse.com.