Musical Play in three acts
Written by Vernise Elaine Pelzel
77 Pages includes song lyrics
16 major roles with many other speaking parts
Running time: 70 minutes
 To order contact Vernise. Email at nisee@mac.com

Upbeat and positive, audiences of all ages respond to this musical adventure of an orange-striped zebra. The show was presented on tour in Northern California from 1987 to 1994 as fundraiser for many non-profits.

Orange has since been performed in schools, motivating children and raising their awareness levels. The adaptable script can accommodate 60 or more actors or a small cast of 13-20. Major scenes or the entire play work nicely for Readers Theatre.

"...a positive and thoughtful parable.deserves to be enjoyed..."
           Dan Taylor, Staff Writer Press Democrat

"...script, songs and characters speak to both children and adults on their very own level...as inspiring a production as I have seen."
           Carrie Switzer, Willits News review

"...a simple, yet extraordinary event that you remember for years....a thoroughly believable character who captivates...true to life lessons that speak to the development of a positive attitude and self-image, while encouraging the innate individuality within each child."
           Senior News & Views

"...we suggest that you, your whole family and bring along some friends...You will be pleased that you did because it is exciting theatre."
           Arnold Santucci, North Bay Spotlight

"A wonderful tale...it is not often our affiliate endorses entertainment production for children...we are so impressed with the quality of this production we felt the need..."
           Rosalind Sandler-Signman, President North Bay Assoc. for the Education of Young Children

What People Say

"...outstanding musical...colorful and exciting...AAUW could not have chosen a better musical to express a major aim of the association, the promotion of self development of individuals."
           Mary-Anne Grady, Chair American Association of University Women

"...never before seen 500 small children sit...completely involved and captivated by a production...it was magic..."
            D.P. McGuire, Principal Lakeport Unified School District

"...profound story, delightful characters...wonderful music.much positive feedback in support of this unique piece of musical theatre."
           Suzette Stiles Slaughter, President Lake County Arts Council

"...the best play I've ever seen. better than Cinderella!"
           Jessica Paulson, age six

"Orange touched my heart . . . a trove . . . . a treasure."
           Charles E. Addison, Playwright

"...[Orange] will certainly live on in the hearts and minds of all who were fortunate enough to see it."
           Suzanne McKay, LCSW School Social Worker, Carmichael

"...packs ten years of therapy in one powerful play...brilliant. inspired... a sacred thing."
           Sharon Lukens, Therapist

"...an absolute delight"
           Barbara Rutner co, Founder Self-Esteem Network of Marin

What Educators Say

"...spoke to small children as well as older children, teenagers and adults. That's no easy task."
           Judith E. Luchsinger, Superintendent of Lake County Schools

"...my highest recommendation goes to The Story of Orange."
           Greg Mucks, Principal

"...quality musical...captivated our student and adult audience of over 600..."
           Ruth Reynolds, Principal St. Helena Elementary School

"Children...identify with the struggles of Orange. Adults leave with new resolve to respect the self esteem of children."
           Penny Walker, Instructor Mendocino College

  "...excellent musical...a joyous theatrical experience!"
           Larry Mitchell, Curriculum Department, Sonoma County Office of Education

"...brilliant assemblage of creativity and affirmative messages...addresses important realistic issues...through the eyes of a child."
           Melinda Oliverio, Teacher-in-training

What Parents and Students Say

"Orange.makes you laugh and cry, but most of all makes you think..."
           Greta Messenger, Mother

"...after seeing this play, I've decided to begin enjoying writing again.and being creative."
           Charles D. Giuich, College Student

"...an excellent play...surprised me that the story could effect adults as much as children."
           Tami Barker, College student

More Review Quotes

"A three-year-old disabled girl in Ukiah came alive after seeing The Story of Orange. The girl had stopped trying to do things, but since seeing the show, her self image has improved tremendously. She is thrilled it is being shown again here...she's bringing 20 girls from a Brownie troop to see it."
           The Willits News

"Audience response...overwhelmingly enthusiastic with more than 2,000 people of all ages viewing the show its final weekend in Santa Rosa. The striking appeal of this upbeat spectacular is that it deals with art, self-expression, creativity and self esteem...toe-tapping music...will delight.all ages."
           Clear Lake Observer

  "...a group of 30 6-13 year old performers...enchanted thousands of people with a musical play that would make some Broadway professionals envious."
           The Ukiah Daily Journal

  "Partly, it's the lovely music...joyous, totally-into-it-kids singing, dancing and acting their hearts out...[and] the script... but the whole is much more powerful than the parts. The story enraptured the crowd of over 600...I wished that every kid (and many of the adults) in the world could experience this show."
           Antonia Lamb, Mendocino Beacon

"Author/Director Vernise Pelzel.put together one amazing spectacle of ...color, charisma and choreography...filled with lessons true to life...entertained spectators both young and old. Don't Miss it!"
           Kurt Johnson, Editorial, Clear Lake Observer