VIA Metropolitan Transit has launched a partnership with the nonprofit Magik Theatre, on its production of “Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus! The Musical!” which opened February 10, 2024. The play is based on the children’s book of the same name, authored by Mo Willems, a New York Times No. 1 best-selling author.

This partnership marks the first time VIA and the Magik Theatre have worked together. It’s an opportunity for VIA to expand awareness about the benefits of public transportation through captivating performances that feature a bus and bus operator. At the performance’s opening night VIA President/CEO Jeffrey C. Arndt read the story to children prior to opening curtain.

Attendees were be able to explore VIA’s fully restored, vintage 1966 GMC Dreamliner bus that was staged outside the theatre on opening night. Guests also VIA mascot Prímo, and grabbed snacks from VIA’s bus-shaped “Grillig” food truck during the theatre’s Opening Night Party in the Park.

“Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!” runs through March 17, 2024, and features the beloved children’s book character, the Pigeon, who laments that he never gets to do anything. However, when the bus driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers late, the persistent bird sees if he can do something. Featuring an innovative mix of songs, the musical is a beloved children’s tale come to life that’ll delight both young and old.

Photo Courtesy of Magik Theater