Tears of Joy Theatre

Study Guide

AVAILABLE THROUGH 2009

By Leo Kominz
A Story from Japan

A tiny boy, who proves his strength by defeating a rat sets off to save Japan from a great ogre. His parents give him a rice bowl to use as a boat, and a chopstick to use as an oar. In his adventures, he befriends a kappa, rides a koi, and becomes the
playmate of a princess before defeating the ogre in a hilarious battle. Performed with bunraku style puppets, this play will delight the entire audience.

"It's the David and Goliath story set in Asia. Tears of Joy Theatre takes youngsters 4 and older
to Japan for its latest piece, which is based on a folk tale and is written
with the delightlfully wry humor that only a teenager can exude." - Holly Johnson, The Oregonian

We were familiar with the folk tale but amazed at the creativity and skill with which the company translated the traditional Japanese story into a relevant, entertaining performance for an American audience. - Parent Chaperone, Portland International School

Can a character this small be seen in my theatre?
Yes! Tears of Joy uses 8 different puppets for Issun (One-Inch) in varying sizes allowing us to play with perspective in magical ways.

Study Guide

Available through 2009
By Nancy Aldrich

What happens when a magnificent dragon moves into the neighborhood? Find out in this spectacular play based on the story by Kenneth Grahame. The dragon, as wonderful as any who ever took the stage, is not the fearsome type. He,like the boy that befriends him, is more interested in art and poetry. The villagers, however,assume they are in grave danger and call on Sir George, the renowned dragon slayer to save them. Sir George discovers the dragon is no threat to anyone, but to keep the villagers happy, he and the dragon stage a mock battle with great showmanship. The villagers decide they can live in peace with their dragon.

Another wonderful artistic performance! Your performers were excellent in actions and voices. I liked how there was no violence--all was very appropriate. -Kay Hudziak, third grade teacher.

Study Guide

AVAILABLE THROUGH 2007-2009

By Lorna Howly and Bobby Box

The Shoemaker and the Elves, is based on a folktale/fairytale recounted by the Grimm brothers. Our toe tappinadaptation of this classic story was originally produced by the Center for Puppetry Arts in Atlanta, GA. It sparkles with wit and humor as two endearing elves come to the rescue of shoemaker, Mel Footmeyer and his wife Tootsie. Each night the elves create more shoes and soon everyone wants a pair. The play is performed with rod puppets, hand-rod puppets and shadow puppets.

"What a fine play and fine production. The humor, sensibility, and puppetry are wonderful!"
Dr. Laurence Kominz, Portland State University

Study Guide

Available through 2010

By Emily Alexander, adapted from the book by Janell

This is the enchanting story of a baby fruit bat who falls into a bird's nest. Poor Stellaluna tries to adapt to her new home but she likes to hang by her feet, and those bugs Mother Bird brings to eat are so disgusting. She would rather play with her food than eat. What a relief to her, when she discovers she is a bat!
Ages 4 and up