Our Shows

Original Plays with Puppets ~
Icarus produces original theatre for young audiences with puppets and
masks. Performing in a highly theatrical style, Icarus challenges
audiences to see puppetry in new ways. A wide variety of puppetry styles are
used, as well as masks, live actors, music, and dance.
Plays are based on world literature with themes that promote universal
values, such as tolerance, nonviolent conflict resolution, honesty and self
worth. Icarus Puppet Company is a touring organization at present,
and plays are performed in schools, theatres, and community settings
throughout the Southwest. In the current
season Icarus offers these following
works in repertory:
Many Voices
A Haitian folktale intertwines with ancient Greek mythology in this upbeat
musical play. Journey with Orphio on exciting adventures with the wise Lady
Mambo, the sly alligator, and the clever Papa Legba.
Through his challenges
Orphio learns to let go of the past, accept the present, and embrace the
future. In doing so, he finds music and himself. Traditional jazz, blues,
Caribbean and modern music help set the lively tone for this touching story. Available from October 2004 Recommended for K-6 and up.
Rumplestiltskin vs.millersdaughter.com
A timely tale from the Brothers Grimm
Miranda has such good business sense her father boasts she could turn straw
into gold. Unfortunately, he's overheard by a king who's a bit too literal
minded. Meanwhile, the Bremen Musicians leave their garage band behind to
seek fame and fortune.
An exciting retelling of a classic Grimm Brothers tale with a 21st century
twist! Told using large scale puppets and shadow puppets this play explores
traditional roles and the importance of being yourself.
Hands-on,
Hands-in Learning Academy ~
Icarus creates lively, involving educational experiences for all
ages. A variety of programs are done which include topics such as: drama
workshops, how to design and make puppets, how to create puppet performance,
how to make and work with masks; just to name a few.
Icarus has experience working with students from kindergarten to high
school, in addition to working with teachers and adults of all ages.
Stars of the Puppetry Universe ~
Icarus produces thrilling guest artist events which bring the
brightest stars of the puppetry universe to the San Diego community. In the
past Icarus has hosted puppeteers from Uzbekistan, Spain, England,
Canada, and throughout the U.S. Guest artist events not only represent the
best puppetry to be seen anywhere but also includes a wide range of puppetry
styles and experiences not normally available in our community. Call about
the next guest artist event coming your way soon.
The Crane Daughter
Based on a beautiful Japanese legend, The Crane Daughter weaves the tale of
an old woman’s kindness, a young woman’s gratitude, and the magical bond
they share. Told using large, bunraku-inspired puppets, as well as shadow
puppets and masked characters, The Crane Daughter teaches the importance of
kindness and keeping promises.
Since it’s premiere in 1996, The Crane Daughter, usually performed with the
shadow play Soo Tan and the Little Green Frog, has been seen by thousands of
San Diego children in school assemblies. Some area teachers have
incorporated the play with puppets into their social studies curriculum,
bringing the company back year after year. The most requested work in the
thirteen-year history of Icarus Puppet Company, in 2004 The Crane Daughter
was selected for production at the Kyoto Laureate Symposium at the
University of San Diego, and this summer’s Puppeteers of America Pacific
Southwest Regional Festival.
These performances are part of Stories of Faith, a major, five-month
program by the City of San Diego Public LIbrary, exploring the role of
religion to understand history and community. (www.sandiego.gov/public-library)
For more information or
to schedule an event
for your organization, please email icaruspuppet@cox.net
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