Peter and the Wolf by Iceland’s Figura Theatre
The Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre Society proudly presents Peter and the Wolf on Sunday, February 23rd 2014 at 2:00 and 4:00pm at the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre. Peter and the Wolf is the final show in the Society’s 2013/14 Kids series.
Originally composed by Russia’s Sergei Prokofiev, Peter and the Wolf was created to introduce young audiences to the various instruments of the orchestra. Puppet master Bernd Ogrodnik, the national puppeteer of Iceland, has added a visual aspect to this classic tale by creating a set and hand carved wooden puppets in the Russian/European tradition. Guided by Prokofiev’s original score, this award winning production of Peter and the Wolf will draw young audiences to the wonderful world of music.
“I adore the music Prokofiev created for Peter and the Wolf” says Ogrodnik, “To be able to introduce such beautiful music to young audiences with the help of my puppets, and to give them the opportunity to really appreciate the gift of classical music gives me tremendous joy.”
With formal training in classical music, fine woodworking, and movement arts, Ogrodnik has been a prominent figure in the world of puppetry since 1986 and currently works as a performer, designer, builder, teacher, and director for his company, Figura Theatre. He has toured internationally as a performer, lecturer and director at international theatre festivals, universities and conferences. His exquisite marionettes and puppet creations are frequently featured in film, television, museums and theatres around the world.
“Observing a child playing with a little toy action-hero, you will notice that the child himself will turn into this action hero, his demeanor, face and voice are entirely dedicated to this character… The great side effect of course is that the audience (even the adults) can really understand and relate to this way of performing, as we have played this way in our youth.” explains Ogrodnik, “We all have been puppeteers at some point in our lives!”
Created for the National Theatre of Iceland, Peter and the Wolf is a stunningly picturesque and musical play sure to delight young audiences while parents will be enamored with beautiful craftsmanship and talent.
“The performance delights audiences of all ages. Though nothing really frightening will happen on stage, the youngest are always best accompanied by grown-ups.” adds Ogrodnik, “Grown-ups though will not need the excuse of being accompanied by small children to enjoy the music and story of Peter and the Wolf.”
There are two limited-audience performances to choose from starting at 2:00 and 4:00pm on Sunday, February 23rd. Tickets for Peter and the Wolf are $12 each and on sale through the Ticket Seller Box Office by calling 250-549-SHOW (7469) or online at www.ticketseller.ca.
The Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre would like to thank the following sponsors for their generous support: TD Financial Group, Kal Tire, Valley Medical Labs, the Vernon Morning Star, the Okanagan Advertiser, the Department of Canadian Heritage, the North Okanagan Regional District, and the Sustainable Environmental Network Society.
