StorytimeOnline Presents: Brothers of the Knight

Children and their families can now view an online adaptation of Debbie Allen's book Brothers of the Knight, which is illustrated by Kadir Nelson.

The theatrical version of Brothers of the Knight played at the Kennedy Center in March/April 1998 and then was remounted again that summer. The production was also remounted with a couple of community partnerships, in their town with their own casts.

Based on the Grimms' fairy tale The Twelve Dancing Princesses, Brothers of the Knight was adapted, directed, and choreographed by Debbie Allen, with music composed by James Ingram, and lyrics by Debbie Allen. About 500 Washington-area students auditioned to participate in Brothers of the Knight, and 24 of them were selected to be in the show.

The relationship between the Kennedy Center's Education Department and Debbie Allen began in 1996, with the highly successful Pepito's Story. This unique production, adapted from the book by Eugene Fern, told the story of a young boy who loved to dance even though the other children made fun of him. His love of dance eventually brings life back to a young girl and breaks the social barriers on the island. The talents of local young people were showcased as 30 dancers ranging in age from 7 to 17, from the Washington Metro area took part in the production. Jazz superstar Arturo Sandoval provided the music and three-time Tony winner Hinton Battle narrated.

About the author:
Debbie Allen started her career as a dancer. She built on her success in dance and became an award-winning actor on television in Fame and more recently on In the House. Behind the scenes, Ms. Allen is a writer, director, and producer for stage, television, and movies. She has choreographed many shows, including the Academy Awards. She produced the movie Amistad, with Steven Spielberg directing. In addition, she performed the role of Harriet Tubman in Harriet Returns at the Geffen Playhouse. Debbie Allen continues to be one of the most respected and versatile talents in the entertainment industry today.