More than 1,000 students from Russell, Adair and Campbellsville Elementary Schools had the opportunity to see "Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse," performed by the Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park at the Russell County Schools Auditorium Complex on Wednesday, according to the facility's director, Susan Melton.

"We are able to bring quality performances such as this to our students at a greatly reduced price compared to paying busses to transport our students to Lexington or other larger cities," Melton said. "This benefits our students as well as students from other counties."

The play, which is by Kevin Henkes and adapted by Kevin Kling, taught important lessons about family, friendship and forgiveness to those in attendance.

According to the playhouse, "Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse" tells the story of one-of-a-kind Lilly, the spunky little mouse. She speaks a secret backwards language and wears disguises, glittery glasses and red cowboy boots. One day she brings her magical, musical purse to school. Trouble at school and resentment about a new baby brother sets Lilly off on a whirlwind of adventures that will captivate young audiences. Kevin Kling has created a roller coaster of a play that has been a hit across the country.

 "Any child or any person who's ever been a child can relate to Lilly and her efforts to do the right thing in the face of a world determined to throw baby brothers, complicated friendships and mysterious teachers in her path," said Director of Education Mark Lutwak. "It is one of the best modern plays ever written for children."

Anne Marie Damman (Lilly), Colin Gold (Mr. Slinger/Garland/Granny), Kevin-Michael Chu (Father, etc.), Marie Pope (Mother, etc.), Mark St. Cyr (Chester) and Matthew David Gellin (Wilson) from the Playhouse's Bruce E. Coyle Intern Company appeared in Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse.

Suann Pollock directed the play. Other members of the production team include Veronica Bishop (Technical Director), Tammy Honesty (Set Designer), Rebecca Senske (Costume Designer), Anna Goller (Props Designer), Mark Lutwak (Sound Designer), Ashley Goos (Dance Choreographer) and Grace Rockstroh (Stage Manager).

"Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse" also toured elementary schools this spring in Northern Kentucky.

For more information about the Playhouse's education and outreach programs, contact the Education Department at 513-345-2242 or visit www.cincyplay.com.

The Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park is a professional regional theatre committed to producing and presenting for diverse audiences the broadest range of theatre in an inviting theatrical environment. Their mission is accomplished through works of the highest caliber produced on stage in a fiscally responsible manner, and through stimulating educational and outreach programs.