All generations will appreciate the message of kindness and friendship that grows in this year’s Theatre for Young Audiences production, “Tomato Plant Girl,” showing April 27 to 30 at the Hesston College Black Box Theater in Keim Center. Performances will be at 6 p.m. on Thursday and Friday and 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Presented by Hesston College Theatre, “Tomato Plant Girl” is a powerful exploration of friendship between Little Girl, Bossy Best Friend and the messy Tomato Plant Girl who springs from the earth. While especially directed toward elementary school aged children, this 45-minute show is full of action and charm that all ages will enjoy.

“I love the fantasy and magic that happens when Tomato Plant Girl emerges from the earth,” explains Director Celaine Worden. “She is from another world, but teaches Little Girl an incredible lesson about true friendship. By the end of the show, Little Girl grows into a different, but stronger person.”

Highlighting the issues of bullying and acceptance of others, this play challenges the character of Little Girl to bravely discover the power of making up her own rules and leading with kindness. Worden hopes audience members of all ages will walk away knowing they have the power to stand up against bullying and through kindness and friendship, bring transformation for a better world.

“As we prepare to plant our gardens this spring, this story provides a positive perspective on our connection with the earth, and each other,” Worden says. “Just like plants, people can grow and flourish when our environment is supportive and kind.”

Hesston College Theatre will also present special showings for Hesston Elementary School students prior to their public performances.

Tickets are available at the door or may be purchased at the Hesston College Bookstore (620-327-8105, hesston.edu/bookstore). For more information, call 620-327-8142 or visit hesston.edu/theatre.