A Magical Journey to Toyland: The Whimsical Musical Extravaganza

Step into a world of magic, whimsy, and joy as you join us in the delightful journey of Babes in Toyland! This enchanting musical, packed with catchy tunes and a fresh original script, is a contemporary take on a timeless tale that will captivate audiences of all ages. Get ready to be swept away to an otherworldly realm teeming with beloved Mother Goose characters, and let’s set off on an unforgettable adventure to Toyland!

The Origins of Babes in Toyland

Babes in Toyland is an enchanting operetta, a brainchild of Glen MacDonough and Victor Herbert. This duo masterfully blended a medley of everyone’s favorite Mother Goose characters into a holiday-themed musical masterpiece that has been warming hearts since its inception.

In the wake of The Wizard of Oz’s enormous success, producer Fred R. Hamlin and director Julian P. Mitchell yearned to recreate the same family-friendly musical magic. Their quest led them to Victor Herbert, and together, they brought Babes in Toyland to life, a musical extravaganza that has continued to delight audiences since its opening night in 1903.

The Magic of Victor Herbert’s Tunes

Babes in Toyland boasts some of Victor Herbert’s most iconic tunes, including the unforgettable “Toyland,” the energetic “March of the Toys,” and the soothing “Go To Sleep, Slumber Deep.” These melodies have become synonymous with the musical, enchanting audiences and transporting them into the magical world of Toyland.

A Legacy of Adaptations

Over the years, Babes in Toyland has inspired numerous TV and movie versions, showcasing the timeless appeal of this classic musical. The 1961 Walt Disney version starring Annette Funicello and Frankie Avalon, the animated version in 1997, and the puppet version in 2003 to celebrate the operetta’s 100th anniversary, all attest to the enduring charm of Babes in Toyland.

A New Spin on the Classic Tale

And now, for the cherry on top! We’re thrilled to introduce a fresh script penned by PMA’s Executive Director Nancy Yeamans, accompanied by a suite of original songs by Music Coordinator Elizabeth Allen. Get ready to be dazzled as we bring a new wave of wonder to Toyland!