AveKids kicks off its season with the Tears of Joy Theatre production of Malika, Queen of Cats.

Take in the artful rendition of the classic Palestinian fairytale at the Auburn Avenue Theater at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29.

Malika, Queen of Cats is a tale that teaches children the wickedness of greed. As the story goes, some years ago in Palestine lived a kind and generous woman who rescued a kitten from a tree. The thankful kitten introduces the woman to a group of magical, talking cats lead by Malika, their queen. The grateful cats reward the woman, but conflict arises for her from there.

Tears of Joy Theatre’s mission is to produce, develop and present puppet theatre that celebrates the diversity of world cultures and to teach children and enrich their lives by helping them experience, create and perform art with professional artists. Besides their extensive touring program, which includes Malika, Tears of Joy Theatre is also a resident company at the Portland Center for the Performing Arts where they present six productions each year.

Auburn Ave Kids showcases local, regional and national acts and touring presentations with an emphasis on audiences ages four through 12 and their parents.

For a full listing of upcoming shows and to order tickets, visit www.auburnwa.gov/arts.

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Showtime

• What: Auburn Ave Kids presents Malika, Queen of Cats

• When: 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 29

• Where: Auburn Avenue Theater, 10 Auburn Ave

• Tickets: $6. Call 253-931-3043, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or through Brown Paper Tickets at www.auburnwa.gov/arts.

• Information: www.tojt.org