Photo Flash: Chicago Children's Theatre's Debut of THE WATSON'S GO TO BIRMINGHAM

Chicago Children's Theatre's 13th season finale is the world premiere of The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963, a civil rights era family drama based on the groundbreaking young adult novel by Christopher Paul Curtis about the 1963 Birmingham church bombing.

Meet the Watsons, an African-American family of five, who live in Flint, Michigan. When oldest son Byron starts getting into trouble, it's decided he needs to be sent to Birmingham, Alabama to live with his grandma and get set straight. So the whole family - Mama, Daddy, Byron, Kenny and Joetta - sets out on a cross-country journey in the family car, the "Brown Bomber." When they make it to Birmingham, they find more than they bargained for - a city simmering with tension during the height of the civil rights movement. This powerful story reminds us that during times of crisis, hope reveals itself in the forms of family, friendships, learning, growing and evolving.

The Watsons Go To Birmingham - 1963 is appropriate for children 9 years old and up, yet sophisticated enough for adults. Weekday school matinees begin March 26. Public performances are March 30-April 28: Saturdays and Sunday at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Exception: No shows Easter Sunday, April 21.

Single tickets are $25-$41. Visit chicagochildrenstheatre.org or call Chicago Children's Theatre Guest Services, (312) 374-8835, for single tickets, subscriptions, information on school performances and group rates.

Check out photos of the production below: