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IN WHAT KINDS OF PLACE CAN THESE SHOWS BE PERFORMED?
This low-tech show can be presented in any large classroom, gymnasium, cafeteria, common room, or even out of doors, since it requires no lighting. The production is self-contained: no stage tech of any kind is needed from the presenter. Stage area of 25’ wide and 15’ deep. However, it can also be performed on a proscenium stage very effectively. Ideal audience size is 50-250.
The show may be followed by a question and answer period and a demonstration of the puppets, masks, props, and backstage area. Set-up time for the show is one-hour; strike about 45 minutes
Comments from some younger audience members:
“The puppets were very funny…The noises of the animals were a lot of fun especially the dog and the rooster… The cow costume was good and the cow looked pregnant… The woman had a beautiful singing voice that played the lead character… When Jack hit the man on the finger that made him yell "Ouch!", it was really funny! It showed that you can get things done if you have help… The man on the keyboards was very good.”
Outreach Projects
Our approach
Suitcase Theatre artists work in schools, community centres and collaborate with many organizations to bring theatre arts within the reach of everyone. We believe that the arts are an essential component of a tolerant and imaginative society.
Our highly visual style accommodates ESL participants and can be geared to groups of any age and ability. We are always interested in forging new relationships and opening up the possibilities of creative expression in different communities. Often the workshops lead to a presentation or celebration on a theme or issue of importance to the participants.
Recent workshops were held with the Canadian Opera Company (Create-an-Opera, After 4, and summer camp programs), Harbourfont Community Centre youth and senior programming, Sarnia’s St. Lawrence House, Sheatre in Grey/Bruce, and numerous schools across the province of Ontario.
Puppet and Mask Making Workshops
Workshops are available in papier-maché puppet and mask making, and how to make little plays using the products of the workshop.
Storytelling Workshops
Our workshops can be designed around a variety of pertinent themes, such as:
“The Teaching Power of Elders in Our Community”
by Hildy Stollery
In our fast-paced urban society we appear to have lost some of the respect that we once had for the wisdom of our community elders, which begs the question, "What is happening in reaction to this loss?." Aboriginal communities that strive to retain the strong roots of their cultures consider the role of the elder as fundamental to their collective well-being. Many of us are asking ourselves the question, "How can the issue of elders teach us about more effective individual and community relationships?"
Hildy Stollery, a retired U of T lecturer in education, has attained the status of an elder in the Toronto story-telling community and in her work at the university in education and psychology. In this workshop, Hildy begins by showing how a few specific ancient stories, and some general techniques of storytelling, address the significance of the elder in the cohesion and security of various societies. Building on the foundation of historical views of the elder, she will lead discussions and story-telling sessions that help us to bring some focus to the role of the elder in our family, social networks and neighbourhoods. All the while she will share tall, short and winding stories that dazzle the eye while they erupt out of the darkness in a display of fireworks and meanings.
Participants will utilize the oral narratives and discussions to locate themselves in the universe…
as did the elders of old
To Bring Suitcase Theatre To You
To make arrangements, or for further information,
please contact our General Manager, Alanna, at 647-476-4990 weekdays between 9 am - 5 pm.
Our mailing address:
Alanna Balicki
1- 386 Indian Grove
Toronto, Ontario
M6P 2H6
Attn: Suitcase Theatre
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