Classic tale takes a musical turn in the award-winning comedy 'Honk!'

Whitefish Theatre Co. opens the holiday season with "HONK!," a colorful and imaginative musical based on Hans Christian Andersens "The Ugly Duckling," a delightful musical comedy.

Shows are Nov. 26-28, and Dec. 3-5 and 10-12.

"HONK!," written by Anthony Drewe with music by George Stiles, is a free-range frolic with flocks of ducks, geese, turkeys and swans. Billy, Beaky, Downy and Fluff start flapping and squawking over the freshly hatched arrival of their fowl brother - The Ugly Duckling. He looks different. He's way too big. And he's a lousy quacker. This big honking, award-winning London hit includes a deliciously devious farmyard cat, a gloriously comedic bullfrog, plus froglets, a geese brigade, and bantam hens galore.

"HONK!" is also a celebration of differences. It's a heartwarming tale not just for children but also for adults, who need an occasional reminder that there is more to life than just following the gaggle.

"HONK!" is directed by former Whitefish Theatre Company artistic director Jane Fellows and the music is under the direction of Eletra Vandeberg. Production manager/costume designer is Lonnie Porro. Set designer and construction manager is John Rawlings, with Rachel Burke as the lighting designer. Brett Hutchison handles the tech and sound, Susan Alexander choreographs the performance and Kellie Hoffman-Cross is the stage manager.

Cast members are Nancy Connors, Jessica Dumke, Phelps L'Hommedieu, Scotty MacLaren, Morgan Phelps, Leslie Thomas, Alicia Blake, Jack Eaton, Fred Warf, Brennan Cain, Jon Jacobs, Brynne Pierce, Mackenzie Thomas, Emily Butz, Tucker Chambers, Abbey Filler, JJ Harris, Kaleb Mohn, and Annie Rottenbiller. The band is comprised of Karla West, Heather Butterfield, Jeana Janik, Amber Townsley and Kari Allen.

Friday and Saturday performances are at 8 p.m. with reserved seating. Tickets are $14 for adults, $12 for seniors and $7 for students and children. Sunday matinees begin at 4 p.m. with general seating. Tickets are $12 for adults and $7 for students.

Box-office hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to p.m. or two hours before a performance. Tickets can be reserved by calling the box office at 862-5371.