GLOBALSTAGE CONTINUES TO REDEFINE FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT WITH NEWEST RELEASE FAR FROM THE MADDING CROWD

October 1, 1998, San Francisco, CA - October 1, 1998, San Francisco, CA - Thomas Hardy's Far From the Madding Crowd is unusually sophisticated fare for the kidvid market. But Founder and President Lizbeth Pratt is not worried. "Our goal at Globalstage is to produce interesting and intelligent entertainment for families. We've found that kids and families are hungry for quality entertainment."

Globalstage released its fourth production Far From the Madding Crowd performed by the acclaimed SNAP People's Theatre Trust of Hertfordshire, England. The production was videotaped in London by the BBC and edited by Emmy Award nominee Herb Ferrette of San Francisco's Metropolis.

Far From the Madding Crowd tells the story of a farm woman who must choose between 3 very different suitors. Lessons about love and relationships are underwritten by themes of class struggle and morality. "Issues such as these are rarely addressed in family entertainment, but they're very important and we find they encourage discussion between the parent and child," says Pratt.

Each Globalstage production is co-hosted by Professor Elizabeth McNamer and her young sidekick 12-year-old Preston Blakeley. The two discuss background of the play and author and consider the themes that are presented in the play. The video also includes a companion booklet with additional background material.

Other Globalstage productions include Frankenstein and Pinocchio filmed at Stage One in Louisville, Kentucky and Cyrano taped in Antwerp, Belgium. Globalstage travels the world to find the finest family theatre, seeking out productions that spark the imagination and challenge the mind. Videos can be ordered by calling toll-free 888.324.5623 or by visiting the website at www.globalstage.net.

For more information about Globalstage or to schedule an interview, please call Becca Britton at 1.888.324.5623; (415-217-5800 x221); email [email protected] or visit www.globalstage.net