Actress to Appear as Peter Rabbit Author

Sipping Earl Grey tea and snacking on sandwiches, scones and nut bread, the more than 200 people attending a performance of author Beatrix Potter’s story of Peter Rabbit on Saturday will be helping poor children, rape victims and seniors.

“Our members are really enthusiastic about it,” said Susan Baker, president of the Assistance League of San Fernando Valley, which is sponsoring its fourth annual “Tea ‘n’ Talk,” the major annual fund-raising event for the all-volunteer group.

Actress Judith Helton will portray Potter, author of “The Tale of Peter Rabbit.” Helton will tell stories and conduct a question-and-answer period in character as Potter. The performance, at the First Presbyterian Church of Granada Hills, has sold out, Baker said.

Proceeds from the event will be used to run programs such as Operation School Bell and a recreational seniors program, as well as to pay for rape victims’ assistance kits and Bear Buddies, stuffed bears used by California Highway Patrol officers to console traumatized children.

Through Operation School Bell, the Assistance League provides shoes, clothing and school supplies for poor children at three Valley schools: Justice Street in Canoga Park and Capistrano Avenue Elementary and Hamlin Street Elementary in West Hills.

The rape victims’ assistance kits, including toiletries and a change of clothes, are given out at Northridge Hospital Medical Center and West Hills Regional Medical Center.