Winnie the Pooh and the Cherry Possums
Winnie the Pooh is reaching in his cupboard for the last jar of honey, when Tigger bursts in with urgent news about a sighting of the mysterious cherry possums. He urges Pooh and their friends to leave the Hundred Acre Wood at once in order to find the pink possums before they are gone. Winnie the Pooh has an inkling that the cherry possums may actually be mistaken for cherry blossoms – but his efforts to tell the others go unnoticed. Nonetheless, Pooh goes with his friends: Tigger, Owl, Rabbit, Kanga, Roo, Piglet, Christopher Robin, and Eeyore on this new adventure to support their search for the mysterious cherry possums.
The journey requires a strict following of Owl’s map through tall meadow grasses and a chilling creek, past a cave, across the swaying bridge, and lastly through the tricker-us trees. The group's trust in one another is tested – and they meet surprising new friends along the way. One in particular was first feared from whispered rumors but becomes a cherished companion that travels with them to their final destination. In the end, the real discovery is how their friendship has bloomed—nurtured by trust, courage, and the joy of sharing the journey together.
About 45 minutes and can be done with minimal technical hurdles, as well as simple set and costume designs. It is a family-friendly show for audiences of all ages.
Productions
Behind The Scenes
With Kathryn Lewis and Dr. Rob Hovermale
What inspired you to adapt / write this musical?
(KAT) It was my students that inspired me to not only write the musical, but create new characters to support the story. To keep my students attention and let’s be honest of those watching- I wanted the story to include humor, opposition, teamwork, and a sense of personal reflection. All while offering an authentic reflection of the beloved characters from the 100 Acre Wood, relatable to all generations. I remember the first day we began blocking the first scene, and how excited and invested the students were in their roles even in the earliest stages. It was special, and already so magical. The characters came to life, because the students brought their best and leaned into the adventure ahead. I wrote the musical as we worked on it, month by month and eventually we had a full presentation that was ready to share with parents and our school community. Along the way, Rob gave of his time and resources to create beautiful accompaniment tracks for our performances, and rehearsals. His support and partnership was crucial in bringing this student inspired musical to life.
What's your favorite part or line or song in the show? Why?
(ROB) My favorite song of the selection changes with my mood, but I do feel “Seed to Sprout” is a fantastic reflection of the entire musical. I love the fact that the story and parts are very flexible and can work with any group. Kat has a gift for creating melodies that are memorable and singable.
(KAT) Roo fights for her independence by sneaking out to investigate Batty’s cave in Scene 3. The tension and humor that develop in this scene make it one of my favorites in the musical. Piglet catches up with Roo and quickly tries to convince her to return to their friends before they are seen. However, Batty appears and Piglet's efforts are no match for Roo's curiosity and Batty's insistence on having them both in for dinner. Once in the cave, Batty guides Piglet and Roo to the dinner table and the song, “What’s For Dinner,” reveals the dinner plans. Batty hints at a secret ingredient that makes the dish complete, which puts Piglet in a panic and lures Roo into the recipe even more. As the song unravels, the secret ingredient is revealed:
PIGLET: “Your secret ingredient is… honey?”
BATTY: “It sure is! I find it makes the perfect addition to my spaghetti sauce. Just the teeniest, tiniest amount makes it just right. Now, who would like to take their first bite?”
This is also my secret ingredient that I use in my spaghetti sauce at home, and I love having that family connection as part of the show.
What did you try to achieve with this musical?
(KAT) I wrote this musical so every student involved would feel included and important. The message of the show was designed to go below the surface, a story that would resonate with the actors and the audience. I believe the characters' struggles and relationships mirror that of our own lives, naturally providing moments of self reflection throughout the performance.
Do you have anything else you'd like to add?
(KAT) I am incredibly grateful to have found a home for the musical and that the characters can share the message of hope and friendship. If your group is looking for a story that will include a large cast, have minimal stage props and costume needs, provide simple and strong melodies, a compelling storyline and most importantly- hook the kids so they’d be on board -- please consider this show.
(ROB) I love working with Kat because of her positive and clever ideas. It was a pleasure working with the kids on this production as well to see their excitement. I hope your group enjoys this show.