POPLAR BLUFF - A children's musical version of the classic Puss in Boots fairytale is coming to the Three Rivers College Tinnin Fine Arts Center Saturday, Jan. 21.

Following its production of The Elves and the Shoemaker in December, the Imaginary Theatre Company of St. Louis will return to Poplar Bluff to kick off the new year with Puss and Boots at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now at trcc.edu/tinnin, the Poplar Bluff Chamber of Commerce, the college Business Offices, and will also be available at the door before each performance. Each ticket is only $10.

The feline favorite of children's fairy tales will come to life onstage in this rendition of the beloved story: Puss is a clever cat who promises his master a life of luxury and adventure in exchange for a pair of boots. Puss goes on to use cunning and intelligence to overcome an ogre, befriend a king and win the heart of the fair princess. ITC's version of the Mother Goose tale combines the spirit of the original with fresh, musical mischief. Through adaptations of classical literature, ITC works to encourage young audiences to "learn through play."

"The mission of the Patrons of the Arts Society is to provide a quality level of entertainment at an affordable price," said Dr. Wesley Payne, Vice President for Learning at Three Rivers. "Here in the Poplar Bluff area, we have great opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Patrons' series expands the cultural offerings of the region and adds a different kind of entertainment option to the area."

Puss in Boots is underwritten by the Missouri Arts Council and a generous donation from Southern Bank, with a new location on campus at Three Rivers College. Companies or individuals interested in helping to sponsor Patrons of the Arts shows can call 573-840-9527 for more information.

Photo Above: Southern Bank is the corporate underwriter of 'Puss in Boots' at Three Rivers. Bill Hirtz, representing Southern Bank(right) and Dr. Wesley Payne of the college announce the production. (Photo from Three Rivers)