"Children of Eden" is a musical about relationships, specifically the relationships between parents and children, told through two Bible stories.

"It's a reinterpretation of the creation narrative as well as the flood narrative ... exploring the way that God's parentship of humans interacts and how His influence is passed down through generations," explained Ethan Goss, who portrays Adam and Noah in the show, noting that act one focuses on the Garden of Eden and act two is about the ark.

"Children of Eden" will be performed at Susquehanna Stage, 133 W. Market St., Marietta, from July 21 through Aug. 6 at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and at 2 p.m. on Sundays.

The show features the music of Stephen Schwartz, who also wrote the songs for "Wicked," "Godspell" and "Pippin," among other musicals, said Mike Kohler, who plays Father in "Children of Eden."

"This show is basically about choices and how choices can benefit you or get you in trouble and the consequences of choices," Kohler said, referencing Eve taking a bite from the apple in the Garden of Eden as an example. "And Father, who is the God-like character, his character and his personality wears away as he sees the things that he's created go against him or make bad choices, and it wears him down."

Audiences of all ages will find something to love about the show, said Nichole Witman, who portrays Eve and Mama Noah. "There's going to be a lot of things happening on stage to keep little kids engaged, and then there's awesome music," she stated.

Kohler added that the production includes a variety of special effects and unique props, including elaborate costumes to represent the animals in the ark. "The animals going into the ark is a pretty special moment," he said.

Witman emphasized that although the show might not be well-known to audiences, it will make an impact. "It's really a hidden gem," she said. "The music is wonderful. ... It's almost an opera. There is dialogue, but the majority of the show is sung."

Susquehanna Stage's production of "Children of Eden" features a cast of 30, including children age 8 and up.

"The rest of the cast are what's known as 'storytellers,'" Kohler remarked. "They play a lot of other roles, but they are also kind of like a Greek chorus in telling the story and keeping the action moving. It's an interesting use of the chorus."

He said audiences should be prepared not only to be entertained at the show, but also to leave with some questions to ponder.

"They can expect to be moved, and they can expect to be surprised," he said.

Witman agreed, adding, "It's very hopeful and thought-provoking."

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://susquehannastage.com.