“Into the Burrow: A Peter Rabbit™ Tale”

CRITIC’S PICK: The Alliance Theatre is rolling out the world premiere of a new musical based on the escapades of Peter Rabbit, Beatrix Potter’s adventurous character who made his first appearance in 1902. This new tale “encourages us to acknowledge our fears and work together to overcome challenges,” producers say. Some familiar names pop up in the story: Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle, Mr. Alderman Ptolemy Tortoise, and Squirrel Nutkin among them. Mark Valdez, the show’s writer and director, says writing a story based on such beloved characters was exciting but daunting. “What do they sound like? What would they do at a party? What is the thing they most enjoy and that makes them laugh? From there I was able to select the characters that needed to be in this play. I knew I wanted them each to have a talent or skill, so part of my (imagination) was picturing them performing for each other.... That was a fun exercise.” (The Alliance’s production is presented in partnership with the High Museum of Art’s exhibition “Beatrix Potter: Drawn to Nature” which runs until early January). - Kevin C. Madigan