The Hobbit Opens October 26

City Circle - "A world of magic will be revealed this Friday night when City Circle Acting Company travels to Middle Earth with Patricia Gray's 1968 adaptation of the beloved J.R.R Tolkien classic The Hobbit. The show follows the journey of Bilbo Baggins, the titular hobbit, and 'lucky number 14' in a band of dwarves setting out to recover their ancient treasure from the dragon Smaug. An adventure of the grandest sort, The Hobbit speaks to the child in all of us... and this production in particular reminds us that children have more wisdom and maturity than we know.

'This is Tolkien's classic tale, with a small twist,' says director James Trainor. 'Most of the performers are children aged 8-16. It's been fascinating to see this world from their perspective. It's a huge journey, and I think we've all learned a lot about storytelling on the way.' Trainor, a long-time youth theater educator throughout the Corridor, is a natural fit with this exuberant cast, guiding them through the script while cultivating their confidence, skill, and boundless enthusiasm.

The production design team for the show keeps the energy going as well. Many of them are working with City Circle for the first time, drawn in by Trainor due to their passion for Tolkien's work. For some, this is a dream come true. The excitement among both the cast and the crew is palpable. Other long-time fans of Tolkien's work will want to snag tickets now for the Saturday, October 27 performance, which will be followed by a talk-back with the director, selected cast members, and special guest, Tolkien scholar Dr. Jay Ruud, of the University of Central Arkansas.

The Hobbit runs Oct 26-28 and Nov 2-4, 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets can be purchased at coralvillearts.org or by calling 319.248.9370. Don't be a 'run-of-the-Shire hobbit' and stay at home; come join City Circle on this great adventure!"