Family Sundaes At

Wadsworth Atheneum

HARTFORD — Introducing children to an eye-opening world of art, theater, music, history and the realm of the imagination is the aim of “Family Sundaes” at Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art. On Sundays during the 2001-02 season, the museum will present theatrical productions and interactive “art smart” activities designed for children ages 5 to 12 (accompanied by an adult).

The schedule continues as follows: November 18, museumgoers can drop in between 1 and 4 pm for “Let’s Clown Around.” Explore “The Circus in 20th Century American Art” exhibition, then Jack the Court Jester will prompt visitors to “juggle” their own creativity to make gigantic pictures of favorite circus characters.

On December 2, at 1 and 3 pm, Bugs and Balloons will star in “The Love Bug’s Hug.” Twisting and sculpture balloons into helicopters, airplanes, scuba tanks, and whatever else is needed, Allynn Gooen and Annie Hickman lead audience volunteers on a search for a curt to cheer up the sad princess.

On January 13, drop in between 1 and 4 pm for “Dress Me Up!” Costume reveals the “personality” of an era, and visitors will explore the museum to sketch the outfits worn by real people or invented characters in paintings. Guests will then fashion their own costume design through collage.

Programs in 2002 continue on February 10, March 17, April 14, and May 19; contact the museum for details concerning these programs.

Series tickets to “Family Sundaes” are $35 for children and $40 for adults. Individual tickets are available at the door on the day of each event on a first-come, first-served basis. Individual tickets are $6 for children and $7 for adults. For more information, call 860-278-2670, extension 3049.

Those who join the museum as “household members” will receive a significant discount on “Family Sundaes.” For information on museum membership, call 860-278-2670, extension 3171.

Wadsworth Atheneum, the country’s oldest public art museum, is at 800 Main Street in Hartford.