Join three best friends Doña Pepa, Sid Sity and Old Man Zimmer as they perform stories, songs and dance together in an interactive program for children and caretakers.
Get ready for a storytime like no other! As part of their 2025 Maker’s Series, Pillsbury House + Theatre is thrilled to present “Love Rising,” three new storytime adventures brought to life by the fabulous Drag Story Hour MN team. With songs, books, and puppets galore, they’ll whisk you away to the Boundary Waters, sparking curiosity and wonder along the way. Each episode is packed with tales of friendship, catchy tunes, and a dash of puppet magic—all celebrating the beauty of nature and the joy of discovery. Don’t miss out on the fun!
Pillsbury House + Theatre Performance dates:
- Episode 1: February 22, 2025
- Episode 2: April 26, 2025
- Episode 3: May 31, 2025
Program Schedule:
10:00 AM – Art Activities in the Lobby
11:00 AM – Interactive Show with Doña Pepa, Sid Sity, Old Man Zimmer, and their puppet friends
“Love Rising” brings the fun of Drag Story Hour together with the magic of theatrical storytelling to create an unforgettable adventure for early learners (ages birth to 10). Bursting with nature, friendship, and a touch of enchantment, each episode takes the audience to the Boundary Waters for a journey of discovery, growth, and connection—with the environment and each other. Need a breather? Sensory toys will be ready and waiting. Best of all, this event is free and open to everyone, so come join the excitement!
In Episode 1, the trio sets off on an important mission to help animals in the wilderness, only to stumble upon an incredible discovery that changes everything. In Episode 2, the magic begins to grow, and the trio welcomes a new friend into their adventure. By Episode 3, it’s time to celebrate the power of friendship as their magical companion takes flight, spreading wonder far and wide.
The performers bring their own unique flair to the story. Doña Pepa, a Caribbean diva, lights up the stage with her love for dancing, nature, and sparkles. Old Man Zimmer adds warmth and wisdom as a thoughtful storyteller with a passion for books, gardening, and puppetry. Meanwhile, Sid Sity brings a creative spark with their love of music, sequins, and uplifting their friends. Together, they create a delightful, immersive experience for everyone to enjoy!
Drag Story Hour MN celebrates diverse, creative, and healthy gender expressions for children and their caring adults. Through storytelling, song, and art, the program fosters empathy, imagination, and community connection. For more information follow us on Instagram @dragstoryhourmn and Facebook @dragstoryhour.
Acknowledgements:
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund – and by the generous support of Pillsbury House + Theatre and our community partners.
About Pillsbury House + House
From the Makers Series to Chicago Avenue Project and Naked Stages, PILLSBURY HOUSE + THEATRE brings audiences closer—to the edge, to the actors, to affordable adventurous theatre, to fellow audience members, and to a strong, vibrant community. Now in its 33rd year, the theatre continues to inspire enduring change towards a just society. An integral part of Pillsbury United Communities, one of the largest human services organizations in the state, Pillsbury House + Theatre demonstrates that the highest quality art is an integral part of all healthy communities, winning community trust, accolades and awards across the metro and nationally. Learn more about our programs at opportunities at www.pillsburyhouseandtheatre.org.
