Jackson Free Press

In the world of New York Broadway shows, children's productions have always held a special place in the bright lights of Times Square.

Now, thanks to the efforts of Averyell and William Kessler, Nickelodeon is coming to Jackson. On July 20, Nickelodeon's star-studded cast will bring four television shows to life: "Dora the Explorer," the "Backyardigans," the "Wonder Pets," and newcomer "Ni Hao, Kai-lan" to the stage.

"(Storytime is) aimed at preschoolers," director Sam Scalamoni says, "but we want a family experience. It's so rewarding as a director, watching the parents and grandparents get up and dance with their kids." They put the show together, rewriting the scripts to tailor them for the stage.

While other shows like "Dora the Explorer" have found their way to Broadway and public television, Storytime Live is spending its first year on the road, touring the country and entertaining kids. Nickelodeon, known for its televised children's entertainment, is now in its 30th year of production and first in the ratings for kids' TV.

"It has so much in it, so many characters," Scalamoni says. "It's funny, you learn from it."

Despite a short run, "Storytime Live" has already performed at venues like Radio City Music Hall and broken the record for the highest grossing show in the current decade at more than $2.8 million.

"Storytime Live" will be at Thalia Mara Hall, July 20 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are not yet available. For more information call 601-981-1847.