Appearances can be deceiving. That’s what Belle learns in Chicago Kids Company’s production of “Beauty and the Beast.” We chatted with the Beast (actor Reid O’Connell) to get his perspective on life when people think you’re ugly.
FF: What’s it like to be considered a Beast?
B: It’s terrible to be an outcast and not have people regard you for the kind of person you are but based upon your appearance.
FF: How would you describe your personality?
B: Deep down, I’m a very caring person. I just have a hard time letting other people in.
FF: What is your reaction when you first meet Belle?
B: I’m trepidatious because I know that she’s going to be afraid of me.
See how their relationship changes, April 3-14, at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Weekend performances are 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. April 8.
Ticket are $14; $12 for ages 12 and under.
For details, call (847) 577-2121 or go to metropolisarts.com.
Nurturing nature lovers
Start them young at Wee Wanderer Wednesday, for ages 2-6 with a caregiver, 10 a.m. April 5 at Crabtree Nature Center, 3 Stover Road, Barrington Hills. Free tickets are available for the first 16 kids, starting at 9:30 a.m. that day.
For details, call (847) 381-6592 or go to fpdcc.com.
Starry, starry night
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You and your children can enjoy the sights in the night sky at Moon Over Barrington, 6-9 p.m. April 3 on the Barrington Area Library Plaza, 505 N. Northwest Highway. The Lake County Astronomical Society will provide sophisticated telescopes for this drop-in event. Rain date is April 4.
For details, call (847) 382-1300 or go to barringtonarealibrary.org.
Immersive experience
Linguate Academy, a nonprofit organization promoting multilingual education, will Celebrate Chinese Culture, 1-3 p.m. April 8 at the Performing Arts Center at the Garlands, 1000 Garlands Lane, Barrington. There will be Chinese fine art, performances and family activities at this free event. Reserve places at [email protected].
For details, call (224) 633-3188 or go to www.linguateacademy.com.
You’ll know how to grow
All ages are invited to attend Starting Vegetable Seeds Indoors, 6-7 p.m. March 31 at Indian Trails Public Library’s branch, 99 E. Palatine Road, Prospect Heights. You will be given tomato and pepper seeds along with planting supplies. Registration is required.
For details, call (847) 459-4100, ext. 101 or go to www.indiantrailslibrary.org