The L.A. Little Theater Is Extending Its Production of The Giving Tree

Los Angeles, April 23, 2015 (Newswire.com) - Leading actress Kristina Nokto portrays the ever-generous Tree in Los Angeles Little Theater's production of The Giving Tree. The show has been extended due to popular demand. This simple, heartfelt, and at times controversial story, is told through music, dancing and improvisation. First published in 1964, the book has produced some differing opinions of the message of the story and the symbolism behind it.

In the beginning of the story the Boy and the Tree play together harmoniously. As the Boy grows up he doesn’t find any time for the Tree and yet the Tree still chooses to give all, until she (yes, it’s a woman) is nothing more left than a stump. According to Nokto one audience member said that now as a father he saw the Tree as a parent, endlessly giving to her child. Another member humorously told her daughters: “Don’t become trees, girls!” The favorite book of many children, this simple story never seems to lose its relevance.

"Children are amazing to have as audience, they become engaged in the action on stage and are now not afraid to openly share in your sorrow and happiness."

Kristina Nokto, Actress

After the show is over the children have a chance to meet and take pictures with the characters. "Children are amazing to have as audience, they become engaged in the action on stage and are now not afraid to openly share in your sorrow and happiness," says Nokto. Along with the rest of the cast the story is always alive through improvisation. “Although our production is open to interpretation, I believe that my portrayal of the Tree is specific and the improvisation allows me to discover new things about my character every time I go up to perform.”

Kristina Nokto is an international actress trained in Stockholm, London and Los Angeles. She has appeared in a number of stage and film productions in Sweden and now, after having graduated from The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, she is taking on the Los Angeles theater arena.

The Giving Tree runs weekends at LA Little Theater. For more information visit www.thelalittletheater.com.