'The Hobbit' Visits the Arboretum

The mystical world of dwarves, trolls and dangerous dragons keeps audiences on their toes during July’s “Theatre Hikes®." The 2011 season kicks off with The Hobbit, a retelling of the classic tale by J.R.R. Tolkein.

This production of The Hobbit is unlike any other as the audience travels with Bilbo and the Middle Earth crew through the Arboretum, I-88 and Rt. 53 in Lisle. Using the greenery as natural backdrops, the characters voyage to the mountain to defeat the dragon, reclaim the treasure and their homeland.

Each "Theatre Hikes®" presents a different scene at a new location on the Arboretum grounds. Audience members walk to each location to enjoy the unfolding story. Regular hikes, which can cover up to two miles with multiple stops along the way, are on Saturdays, and low-impact hikes (suitable for strollers, walkers and wheelchairs) are on Sundays. Hikes begin at the Thornhill Education Center. Comfortable walking shoes, water bottle, blanket, or lawn chair are recommended.

Individual show tickets are $13 to $19 (discounts for Arboretum members). Season tickets are available for $45 to $60 (discounts for Arboretum members). For show times and dates or to purchase tickets call 630-725-2066, visit www.mortonarb.org or in person at the Visitor’s Center.

“The story fosters the importance of friendship and working together over the value of materialistic objects,” said director Bradley Baker. “It also teaches about the strength we all have inside but may not know it.”

We meet Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who enjoys a peaceful and pastoral life. Suddenly his world is turned upside-down when the wizard Gandalf and 13 dwarves make a surprise visit. The group, Bilbo included, then embarks on a quest through Middle Earth to recover the lost treasure guarded by Smaug the dragon. As they set forth, trouble ensues.

The daring adventure of the brotherly bunch features extravagant action-packed scenes. From fight scenes with trolls and goblins to the grand finale battle of the five armies, the gripping expedition should not be missed.

“I hope that children ages two to 102 will find this performance engaging and fun,” said Baker, who has acted in and directed previous performances including, Treasure Island, Little Women, Mountain Days, and Jackie, An American Life.