Grades 7-12
Curriculum: Language arts, literature, reading skills, history, human relations

In this tragic and endearing John Steinbeck story, follow the mismatched friendship of George Milton and Lennie Small, two displaced migrant ranch workers in Depression-Era California. George has big dreams and tiny frame, while the large but simple Lennie seeks the comfort of everyday little pleasures. Just as George’s dreams seem within reach, his compassion is tested through Lennie’s mistakes. What makes true men and what makes true friends?

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Background:
From the author of The Grapes of Wrath, Of Mice and Men marks another National Players classic tale. In this tragic and endearing story, we follow the mismatched friendship of George Milton and Lennie Small, two displaced migrant ranch workers in Depression-Era California. Small George has big dreams and tiny frame, while the large but simple Lennie seeks the comfort of everyday little pleasures. Just as George’s dreams seem within reach, his compassion is tested through Lennie’s mistakes. What makes true men and what makes true friends?

National Players, America’s longest running classical touring company, has now reached its 62nd consecutive season of touring. Currently the touring program of Olney Theatre Center for the Arts, National Players has earned a distinctive place in American theater. Committed to the formation of emerging theatrical talent and new audiences, National Players seeks to celebrate the experience of theatergoing by presenting the world’s greatest dramatic literature.

62 Years of Tradition: Join us as National Players presents two classic works for the 2010–2011 season: A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare and a stage adaptation of The Scarlet Letter . Players’ productions adhere to strict traditions of touring theater: Company members double and triple, not only in roles, but technical assignments such as lighting, sound, costumes, set-up and strike. National Players makes literature live for its audiences by engaging their minds and touching their hearts with fresh, contemporary takes on classics. Each year, whether performing in inner city schools or in rural America, tour members continue the tradition by traveling state-to-state, sparking the imagination of audiences across the country.