BOX OF BIRDS
Nelson Public Library, 27 Halifax Street, Nelson
01/03/2020 - 01/03/2020
Production Details
A new show for ages 3 to 6 years
The story follows Peter and his Grandma who build a nesting box for Ruru – but Peter must learn to be patient and wait to discover who will eventually nest in his Box of Birds? The bird characters are familiar New Zealand locals and the story introduces young children to the idea of supporting nga manu and the different needs they may have.
Designed specifically for 3 to 6 years and including live music and songs and the magical wonder of puppetry.
The show is 30 mins long and is easily transportable and set up in a small intimate space, 3m x 3m.
“The music was great, the children joined in straight away singing along – these guys should put out a C.D.” – Atawhai Kids Kindergarten Staff
“After the show the children were looking out and identifying Tui and Piwakawaka in our preschool!” – Hira Kindergarten Staff
“This show was perfectly pitched and timed for the preschool age group. it was really enjoyable” – Eden ELC Staff
Nelson Public Library
Sunday 1 March 2020
1.30 pm
Book Us Here
http://www.birdlifeproductions.co.nz/box-of-birds.html
https://www.facebook.com/events/186238556129425/
Theatre , Puppetry ,
30 mins
The small but discerning spectators are captivated
Review by Ruth Allison 01st Mar 2020
Almost every New Zealand child is familiar with the kereru, the piwakawaka, the tui and the ruru so when the Bridget and Roger Sanders ask their young audience to sing along, they do so with gusto. The notes of “morepork, morepork” come to life as the 3 to 6 year-olds join in and a roomful of rurus ensue.
The two puppeteers charm their willing admirers. Their gift is in the simple story telling, exquisite puppets, magical sets and the ability to create a quiet but enchanting atmosphere. Roger tells his story in just the right way for the earnest young who gather at his feet in anticipation. They are not disappointed.
Peter and his grandmother build a nesting box for a kereru. Peter has to wait patiently for several days before they venture out at night under a starry sky to find the owl sitting comfortably in his dark but safe place. While he waits other birds come and look but decide the box is not for them. The story is transparent and uncomplicated. Foot-tapping songs accompanied by a range of simple musical instruments add colour. The children are transported.
Bridget works magic with the puppets and the sets. She works quietly but swiftly. She morphs into a kereru. She is a hammer hand. She creates a night forest. In her hands the piwakwaka flits through branches and a tui swoops and swirls. The noises and actions of building a bird box come to life with the aid of the children.
The kereru looks so real that a child leans over to touch it. The audience ooh and aah when two baby owlets appear. The human puppets are elegant and beautifully dressed. They are handled adroitly. Peter and his grandmother are exactly the right size for the small but discerning spectators. There are many of them and they all watch with wonder as the story unfolds. They are captivated.
This is truly a New Zealand show for New Zealand children and all those young-at-heart.
Copyright © in the review belongs to the reviewer
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