Adapted by Patrick McDonnell and Aaron Posner
Music and lyrics by Andy Mitton
Based on the book by Patrick McDonnell
Directed by Rives Collins

Before she became a renowned humanitarian, conservationist, and animal activist, Dr. Jane Goodall was a little girl with a special toy chimpanzee named Jubilee. Together, Jane and Jubilee discover the miracles of nature on their shared outdoor adventures, and young Jane imagines spending the rest of her life helping animals in Africa. Later, she will do just that! In this musical adaptation, join young Jane and her special friend as they learn about the world around them and the importance of protecting all living species.

Me…Jane was commissioned by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and was first produced at the Kennedy Center during the 2017-18 season.

Suggested for ages 5+

Runtime:  Approximately one hour. 

Creative Drama Workshops

October 29 and November 5, after our 2 p.m. shows

After seeing the show, join us for this free 45-minute creative drama workshop, with Northwestern teaching artists and members of the cast. This workshop is available to any child who attends, and parents and guardians are also encouraged to participate.

This workshop will include an explorer roleplay, to practice being a primatologist just like Jane, a game involving recycling, and an exercise about discovering and nurturing your dreams – participants only need to bring themselves, all materials will be provided!

Due to our limited space, registration is required: please contact the Wirtz Center Box Office  wirtz@northwestern.edu to register your child, as well as to let us know of any special accommodations we may need to make for your child.

Workshops will take place immediately after the show in Wirtz, with participants being escorted in a group from the Josephine Louis Theater lobby to the workshop space.

Sensory Friendly Performance
November 6, 2 p.m.

This specialized performance facilitated by Seesaw Theatre in collaboration with Imagine U will provide a relaxed and safe environment for disabled audience members. This performance is open to all with an enhanced focus on theatrical accessibility.
Modifications to the experience include:

• A detailed social story will be sent to audience members the week of the show. This guide can help prepare your child for the experience of visiting the theatre and seeing “Me…Jane”
• Select changes to light and sound cues to minimize sudden changes and high-volume effect.
• A quiet space for audience members, if they need a break from the performance at any time.
• Theatre teaching artists with a background in theatrical accessibility will be present.
• Sensory kits (including items such as headphones, sunglasses, fidget toys, etc.) will be available to audience members upon request.

All audience members for this performance will experience this sensory-friendly performance. Fidget toys and communication devices will be welcome in the theatre. If there is anything additional we can do to support you and your child’s experience for this performance, please reach out to us wirtz@northwestern.edu

Learn more about Jane Goodall

• Who is Jane
• Chicago Wildlife Guide
• Conservation in Chicago