Wild Life expert Peter Gros returns with Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom LIVE on stage at The Ridgefield Playhouse on January 29

Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom, which premiered on Jan. 6, 1963, took viewers to the far corners of the world and studied wild animals in their natural habitats. Wild Kingdom viewers witnessed exciting stories and learned about wildlife and conservation as hosts Marlin Perkins, Jim Fowler and Peter Gros faced the challenges of life in the wild. Now is the chance to get up close and personal with one of the pioneers of the groundbreaking nature program! The Ridgefield Playhouse and Ridgefield Academy Family Series presents Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom with Peter Gros on Sunday, January 29 at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., with co-stars from the animal world including snakes, birds of prey and other exotic animals that will amaze the audience! Peter is an expert in animal affairs and will share his timeless tales in an interactive show guaranteed to thrill. A mix of video clips showing the adventures he has had filming wild animals, plus some blooper clips, will help share his story while introducing friendly exotic animals to the audience of all ages (recommended for 4 and up). Peter’s stories about dealing with issues of conservation, travel, and wildlife filming will inspire and educate the whole family.

The New Canaan Land Trust will host a VIP brunch with Peter Gros from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Proceeds will benefit The New Canaan Land Trust which helps preserve and protect open space in New Canaan. As a special treat, Scooby Doo, mascot of South Salem Animal Hospital, will be in the lobby for photo ops. Dimitri’s Diner (16 Prospect St., Ridgefield) is offering 10% off the bill before or after the show when tickets are presented. This event is partially underwritten by Books on the Common, South Salem Animal Hospital/Noah’s Ark Animal Hospital with media sponsor 98Q.

In past Playhouse shows, Peter has been accompanied by a 50-lb. Binturong, a 6' alligator, a Giant African porcupine, a 5 ft. monitor lizard Lemur, Eurasian Eagle owl (the largest owl in the world, flying over people’s heads to the stage), a kookaburra who will sing with the audience, and so many more furry friends. Peter is a frequent lecturer on conservation and preservation at universities, zoos, theaters and nature and science centers around the nation. His goal is to share his passion for the natural world with young people across the planet, inspiring them to protect animals both locally and globally. “We need to continue to deliver a powerful message about how each of us can make a daily difference in preserving our natural world,” Gros says. “It is possible to use our natural resources in a sustainable manner. We simply need to educate our nation’s youth about the importance of wildlife conservation.” Peter’s life is dedicated to inspiring young people to care about wildlife and wild places. He continues to be a Champion for the natural world, traveling and speaking around the United States.

As part of The Ridgefield Playhouse Arts for Everyone program, which helps make the performing arts available to economically disadvantaged residents of Fairfield County who cannot afford the cost of admission, even at reduced rates, the Union Savings Bank Arts for Everyone recipient is Family and Children’s Aid. The Playhouse was founded in the belief that arts can and do make a difference in the lives of people, and that accessibility to the arts should not be limited by one’s ability to pay. Arts for Everyone works with a wide range of non-profit organizations including ABC, Ability Beyond Disability, Danbury Youth Services, Family and Children’s Aid, Grassroots Tennis, Mental Health Associates of CT and the Out and About Club. Your donation helps provide tickets and transportation to the Playhouse.

For tickets ($40 VIP Meet and Greet, $25 Adults, $20 Children, VIP Brunch $50 per person and includes a ticket to the 1pm show) call the box office at 203-438-5795, or visit ridgefieldplayhouse.org. The Ridgefield Playhouse is a non-profit performing arts center located at 80 East Ridge, parallel to Main Street, Ridgefield, CT.