The Little Baby Snoogle-Fleejer is based on the book by former president Jimmy Carter, with illustrations by Amy Carter. The story originated in President Carter’s navy days (1946-1953) when after long sea deployments, he would make up sea monster stories to entertain his children. Although it is primarily a children’s story, The Little Baby Snoogle-Fleejer touches on many poignant subjects: single-parent families, living with disability, childhood teasing, fear and misunderstanding of people who are different, fear of being different, military families in deployment, long-hidden illness.  It is told in story-within-a-story form, launching a fairy-tale adventure with fantastical creatures, strong characterizations and heightened drama.

This production will absolutely delight young audiences.  However, the story’s appeal, both in book form and on stage, is universal.  At its core, The Little Baby Snoogle-Fleejer is a simple tale of friendship.  Two wandering souls find each other, and in the process, find themselves.  Each demonstrates curiosity and courage in their willingness to take a chance on the other.  Each exemplifies integrity and honor in their selfless defense of the other.  Not a bad value system for children.  Or for grown ups. 

Since we adapted and premiered The Little Baby Snoogle-Fleejer in 2003, a number of other children’s theatres have produced it as well, including a performance last August at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland.

It has been a joy for me to remount The Little Baby Snoogle-Fleejer.  The cast, anchored by Adam Archer and Lisa Cesnik, have been extraordinary in their creativity and their commitment.  My thanks to artistic partners Dona Pierce, Tom Heiman, Tiffany Galey, Hampton Bishop and Sam Renner. Thank you again to the wonderful people at the Carter Center, particularly Faye Perdue and Nancy Konigsmark, for their assistance.  And a very special thank you to President Carter for his trust, his encouragement and his inspiration.

Ron Anderson
Writer/Director