JACKSON — New Stage Theatre will be among the first professional theaters in the nation to present the children’s theatre production of “Madagascar — A Musical Adventure.”

The musical is based on the DreamWorks Animation Motion Picture, book by Kevin Del Aguila, with original music and lyrics by George Noriega & Joel Someillan. New Stage Artistic Director Francine Thomas Reynolds will serve as director of the production.

“We are honored to be one of the first professional theatres to produce this brand new show,” Reynolds said. “Based on the hit animated movie, ‘Madagascar – A Musical Adventure’ follows all of your favorite crack-a-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo. With high energy songs and movement paired with familiar characters, this one hour show is fun for the entire family.”

It’s the Southern premiere of a new musical for all ages – yes, even parents – of the much-loved madcap journey from New York’s Central Park Zoo to the beaches of Madagascar. See Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the Hippo, and the always-plotting penguins. Join these crack-a-lackin’ friends and get ready to “Move It, Move It,” Reynolds said.

The show will feature the New Stage Professional Intern Company hailing from Jackson and Memphis: Christan McLaurine as Marty the Zebra, LaSharron Purvis as Gloria the Hippo, and Jake Bell as Melman the Giraffe.

Public performances are Jan. 27 and Feb. 3 at 7 p.m. and Jan. 28, 4 and 5 at 2 p.m.

Ticket prices are $15, adults; $10, children 12 and under. Tickets may be purchased at the box office, located inside the Jane Reid Petty Theatre Center; charged by phone by calling the theatre at (601) 948-3531; or ordered online at www.newstagetheatre.com. Box Office hours are Monday-Friday, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. During performances, Box Office hours are from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

• “Madagascar — A Musical Adventure” is sponsored by Trustmark and the Sam E. and Burnice C. Wittel Foundation.