Tony Award winner John Lithgow stars in the production, which is based on the book by E.B. White and adapted for the stage by Marsha Norman, with music by Jason Robert Brown, who also conducts.

Lithgow plays the boy Sam in a cast that also features local award-winning actors Naomi Jacobson as Mother Swan, Jason Lott as Louis' Thoughts, Jenna Sokolowski as Serena, Craig Wallace as Father Swan and Michael Willis as Man. The role of Louis is performed by trumpeter Christopher Venditti.

The Trumpet of the Swan: A Novel Symphony, according to press notes, "tells the story of Louis, a young Trumpeter swan who is born without a voice. Though handsome and graceful, Louis could not trumpet the mighty Ko-Hoh like the other swans, and so would never be able to find a mate, or even rule the lake, the way Trumpeters are supposed to do. So Louis's father risks his life to get him a real trumpet, and then his human friend Sam teaches him how to play it and gets him his first job playing Reveille for a boys' camp. Having found his voice, Louis journeys on to find friends, fame, fortune, true love, and the admiration of music lovers all over the northeast."

There will be an instrument "petting zoo" in the Terrace Gallery between the two performances, from 3-4:40 PM, as well as a post-concert Kids' Chat with the conductor, guest artists and some NSO musicians immediately following the 5 PM performance.

Tickets cost $15-$18 and may be purchased at the Kennedy Center Box Office or by calling Instant Charge at (202) 467-4600. Those patrons living outside the Washington metropolitan calling area may dial toll-free at (800) 444-1324 or visit kennedy-center.org.

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The performance for families is recommended for audiences ages seven and up.