Saddened by her grandfather’s impending
death, Tish (Shelley Engel from Potomac) runs away to her special tree.
There her wish is granted by Star Bright (Paula Purdy from Herndon) taking
her to a world of fantasy where she meets the World’s Greatest Dancing
Bear (Ray Converse from Arlington). He too, is old like her grandfather
and running away…from death which for the old bear is the Ringmaster
(Mary Yee from Fairfax). Together they begin to understand the circle of
life as the old bear teaches Little Bear (Heather Noble from Reston) to
become the new World’s Greatest Dancing Bear. They are helped in this by
an animated Mime (Karen Wachhaus from Sterling).
The play blends realism and fantasy, pathos and humor.
Delightfully theatrical, with music, magic and dance, enthusiastically
applauded by children's audiences -- and family audiences. 'The Arkansaw
Bear' is an important work by America's foremost playwright for young
audiences, sparkling with entertainment and, at the same time,
dramatizing, with poignancy, a universal truth.
The Arkansaw Bear, written by Aurand Harris (author of last
years acclaimed Androcles and the Lion), is directed by James
Vaughn. It is a groundbreaking story that helps children and adults deal
with the pain of losing a loved one, but it is a play more about life than
death
Director: James Vaughn
For additional information or directions call (703) 481-5930 Box #3.
A production of The ESP Theatre for Young
Audiences, presented in cooperation with the Town of Herndon Parks & Recreation
Department.
Audition Dates: Sept. 8-9, 1:00-4:00 p.m.
Production Dates: Oct. 27-Nov.11
Produced by special arrangement with Anchorage
Press Plays.
ESP Productions are partially supported by a grant from the Virginia
Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.
