The creators of a New York show with a spectacular twist on Victorian toy theatres are aiming to start a new holiday tradition.
Toy theaters were elaborate pop-up stage sets made from card, roughly the size of a large book. Children and adults could change the scenes and characters, acting out famous plays, or improvising their own.
KING OF JUNGLE…lion puppet painting by Simons
Now the idea is being reset on a much grander scale for Carnival of the Animals, with a rousing 10-piece orchestra, the poetry of Ogden Nash, and over 24 puppets.
Based on Saint-Saëns’ musical ‘salute to feathers, fur, and fins’ of the same name, this Miller Theatre production also features Tchaikovsky’s Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, as well as curtain-raisers from the 16th century to present-day.
DIGNIFIED…puppet of the swan in new show
Director Lake Simons – who designed all the sets and puppets – said: “The pop-up nature of the toy theatre excited me as well as its use of the traditional wing-and-drop scenery. It seemed to go hand in hand with the playful, yet elegant, presentation quality of the music and the poetry.”
The clean lines and dignified designs of Victorian toy theatres provided much of the inspiration for the show’s creators, says Simons.
FEATHERED FRIEND…sketch for the cock in Carnival of the Animals
“The thought of adults setting up a miniature theatre and playing all the roles and moving the scenery around was exciting. It encourages make believe.
“This is intended for adults and children equally. It has been made with both in mind. I hope the audiences smile a lot. The puppetry style is as unique as the performance style and this can open the door to many surprises. The puppeteers are very physical.
DETAILED…Simons’ painting of the elephant puppet
“Even though the toy theatres are elaborate there is a simplicity that they evoke: the grand and tiny in one.
“If I had to persuade someone to go and see it, I’d say ‘Ten-piece orchestra! Over two-dozen puppets! Imaginations are alive!’”
Miller Theatre Executive Director, Melissa Smey, added: “Bringing family programing to Miller has always been a desire of mine, so this production is a dream come true. I can’t wait to welcome a new generation of Miller Theatre enthusiasts with this production of Carnival of the Animals.”
*Carnival of the Animals at Miller Theatre, 2960 Broadway at 116th Street, is on December 19, 2015, at 3pm and 7pm. Tickets from www.millertheatre.com or at box office 212.854.7799.
VINTAGE YEAR…the show features music from Saint-Saens
About the Author: Boo Paterson
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