Then they can stroll to the park’s Victorian garden for an old-fashioned ice cream social with hand-churned ice cream, Mike Caplin, spokesperson for Benicia State Parks Association, said.
The marionette play will be on the ground level, in the Senate Chamber of the historic Capitol.
“‘The Frog Prince,’ or ‘Iron Henry,’ is a classic fairy tale best known through the Brothers Grimm written version,” Caplin said. “Traditionally, it is the first story in their collection.”
He said the 2009 Disney film, “The Princess and the Frog,” is loosely based on the same story.
In the tale, a spoiled princess accidentally loses her favorite possession, a golden ball in a pond.
A frog that lives in the pond strikes a bargain with the distraught princess. But when the frog recovers the ball, the princess runs away without honoring the pact.
The story tells the tale of the frog’s efforts to make the princess keep her word, which can help the frog return to his true identity.
Fratello Marionettes, founded by Kevin Menegus and based in Danville, has been entertaining since 1989. Performers use the American or “cabaret” method, based on Menegus’s unique style developed as he studied with some of the masters of the craft.
“We are very excited to bring the Fratello Company to Benicia, and know that this will be a delightful experience for the audiences, both for the children and their parents,” said Carol Berman, Benicia State Parks Association president.
The event starts at 1:30 p.m. Sunday at Benicia Capitol State Historic Park, 115 West G St. Seating is first-come, first-served, and parents need to accompany their children. Admission is free.
Those interested in the BSPA may visit the website www.protectbeniciastateparks.org.
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