The Big Read Film Doubleheader: ‘Tom Sawyer’ and ‘Huckleberry Finn’
Mark Twain’s classic stories come alive in these two musical adaptations from 1974:
1:00 pm: This beloved version of Tom Sawyer stars redheaded mop-top Johnny Whitaker as Tom, and Jodie Foster as his fetching sweetheart, Becky Thatcher. Celeste Holm plays his exasperated, tough-loving aunt and Jeff East fills the role of Tom’s ragtag best friend Huckleberry Finn. The screenplay and songs were written by Richard and Robert Sherman, responsible for the music in many of Disney’s classics including Mary Poppins, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Bedknobs and Broomsticks. Conducted by John Williams, the musical numbers include Gratifaction, the lively Freebootin’ and Charley Pride’s River Song. 98 minutes.
3:00 pm: The musical adaptation of Huckleberry Finn captures the genuine friendship between Huck, who is again played by Jeff East, and Jim, played by Paul Winfield. Strong-willed and self-raised, Huck decides to flee his hometown of Hannibal, Missouri, when his cruel absentee father tries to kidnap him. Accompanying him is the sharp-witted Jim, who fears he is about to be sold. As this unlikely pair journey north to freedom, they develop a bond of friendship and mutual respect that will help them brave a series of thrilling adventures with a few narrow escapes. 114 minutes.
Event Location and Ticket Information
The New Rochelle Public Library
1 Library Plaza
New Rochelle, NY
Handicap Accessible? Yes
Date: Saturday, May 9, 2015
Times: 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Ticket pricing:
Free event
Presenter: New Rochelle Public Library
Presenter Phone: 9146327878
Presenter Website: www.nrpl.org