GTA Opens Season with Family Favorite Junie B. Jones is Not a Crook
GAINESVILLE, Ga. (September 23, 2025) — Gainesville Theatre Alliance (GTA) opens its 2025-26 “Let’s Play” season with Junie B. Jones is Not a Crook, on stage October 3-5 at Brenau University’s Pearce Auditorium. The production promises a fun, laughter-filled outing for the whole family. With Junie B.’s spirited antics and a story full of heart, it’s a perfect introduction to live theatre for young audiences and a nostalgic treat for parents and grandparents alike.
Junie B. Jones has a big problem—someone swiped her brand-new furry mittens! But when she finds a dazzling pen of many colors, is it “finders’ keepers” or something more? Between playground drama, kindergarten crushes, and tough lessons about right and wrong, Junie B. navigates it all with her usual flair. This playful, heartwarming adventure celebrates the wild, wonderful world of childhood in Allison Gregory’s stage adaptation of Barbara Park’s beloved books, Junie B. Jones is Not a Crook and Junie B. Jones Loves Handsome Warren.
Performances are scheduled for Friday, October 3 at 7:30 pm; Saturday, October 4 at 2:30 pm and 4:30 pm; and Sunday, October 5 at 2:30 pm.
Guest director Cory Phelps, Artistic Director and Co-Founder of Atlanta-based Destination Theatre, leads the production. Destination Theatre is dedicated to creating excellent and imaginative touring productions with a strong emphasis on theatre education, making Phelps uniquely suited to direct a Theatre for Young Audiences show. “Junie B. is a peculiar, fun-loving kiddo,” Phelps said. “We hope audiences leave with a heart full of joy and an imagination full of whimsy!”
Following the October 5 matinee, audience are invited to stay for a special Ice Cream Social, featuring sweet treats from Puzzle Piece Pastries. Admission to the Ice Cream Social is included with the price of a ticket.
Tickets are on sale now. Patrons may purchase single tickets or save up to 20% with a season package that also includes Sister Act (Nov. 7-15), The Play That Goes Wrong (Feb. 13-21), and Into the Woods (Apr. 10-18). Tickets and packages are available at GainesvilleTheatreAlliance.org or through the GTA Box Office at 678-717-3624.