This immensely popular and highly praised dramatization of the Johanna Spyri novel is by Ann Pugh and Betty Utter who have turned the novel into an enchanting 2-act—musical or non-musical—play. Showcased at the American Theatre Association convention in New York, the script is arranged so that it can be presented elaborately or simply. It may be presented as a non-musical by eliminating the songs and dances (songs which play an integral part of the plot may be spoken). The authors also give permission to shorten the show by eliminating or shortening scenes and/or songs.

The play includes Swiss and German folklore and traditions (like a visit from St. Nicholas with an Yffel parade, and the famous Burning of the Boogg), combining educational and entertaining qualities in a never-to-be-forgotten event. Betty Utter's songs have become popular concert pieces and Ann Pugh's book follows the story well. It tells the story of a little orphan named Adelheid, who prefers to be called Heidi because that name yodels better. She is one of those rare people who bring happiness wherever they go—to her old grumpy grandfather on a Swiss mountain and to little lame Clara in Germany. But will Heidi ever find happiness for herself?

Heidi is enchantingly alive and real in this play. Children are charmed by it, and adults enjoy the nostalgia of a visit from one of their best childhood friends.

"I am delighted with both. Heidi and It Happened in Hamelin are so refreshing. After reading hundreds of scripts, it is so wonderful to find material that is Children's Theater."—James W. Rye, Jr., Managing Director, Birmingham Children's Theatre, Birmingham, Ala. "I played the part of 'Heidi" at the Leddy Center last fall. It was like a dream come true to be able to act out one of my favorite stories!"—Darcy MacLaren, age 10, Raymond, N.H. "An unbeatable combination that makes for great lyric theatre"—Melvin Dacus, Casa Mañana Musicals, Inc., Fort Worth, Texas.

Reviews of the premiere by the Arts Council of Greater Fort Worth were unanimous in their praise: "Move over Lerner and Loewe for Utter, Pugh, and Heidi"—Fort Worth Star Telegram. "Has all the ingredients to insure its success with any audience."—Dr. Robert L. Hull, conductor, Forth Worth Symphony.

Extensive Production Notes cover all details of elaborate or simple productions. Another highly-honored internationally popular play by Pugh and Utter is It Happened in Hamelin also known as The Pied Piper.

Another Pugh musical: Sleeping Beauty (La Bella Durmiente)

See also: Classics and Musical/Non-Musical