Grandfather Frost's Stories of Russia

Grandfather Frost weaves his magic through the Russian taiga, spinning puppet tales with Baba Yaga and her mischievous cat. A lively, intimate performance for young people.

Grades:  K-6

Program Requirements:  The performance requires a minimum area 15' deep x 15' wide x 12’ high. A raised stage is recommended for large audiences (over 100) but may be played in a more intimate setting for smaller groups.

Electrical needs: Power source only for lights

Actors:            Vladimir Vasyagin, Russian puppeteer; Leslie Archer, musician

Performance Time: 45 minutes each

Setup and strike:   30 minutes each.      (15 minutes between performances)

Curriculum Guide:  OHT provided

Fee:   $450 for a single performance; $300 for a second; $250 each additional.* For venues outside Syracuse area (over 60 mls), additional travel fees may apply

Limit:   Up to 200 students

Theme: Introduction of Russian Folk Characters and folk songs to portray a rendition of a well-known Russian folk tale, presented in Russian puppetry style.

Objectives of the performance:
* Introduce characters and songs from Russian folk lore
* Tell a Russian folk story through character interaction, imagination, song and puppetry
* Present an authentically Russian style of puppetry, with puppeteer and puppet sharing the stage and interacting as and with the characters
* Introduce the lessons inherent in folk tales and illustrate their relevance to all cultures and times

Brief Synopsis:
The performance opens with themes from several Russian folk songs and the introduction of old storyteller, Baba Yaga and her mischievous black cat. When the cat cannot be found the audience is engaged in a search for ways to bring him out. The cat finally appears on the set, and in turn introduces Vladimir and the Balalaika, proceeding to take over the singing of the next folk song. Baba Yaga comes on to admonish him, and they begin the story of Matriona and Alonushka, two sisters who live near then edge of the vast Russian forest. Matriona sends the younger sister out alone, and, with the conniving of Baba Yaga and the help of the cat, Alonushka becomes hopelessly lost. Her travels to Grandfather Frost's house, to the south wind, and back home are likewise manipulated by Baba Yaga and confounded by the cat, who can't seem to get anything right. In the end the jealous older sister proves her selfishness, and both sisters learn from their experience.

Curriculum Correlations:
THE ARTS:
* understanding the cultural dimensions of Russian folklore, music and styles
* Responding to materials and resources: unusual musical instruments and puppets
ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS:
* listening and singing along with folk tunes
LANGUAGES OTHER THAN ENGLISH:
* listening to the rhythm of Russian language in songs
* Learning the English translation of a Russian song
SOCIAL STUDIES:
* Understanding differences in other cultures and stories
* Understanding relationships between culture and geography

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In addition to these touring shows, Open Hand Theater offers several other workshops and educational programs.

518 Prospect Avenue,
Syracuse, New York 13208
Tel: 315-476-0466
FAX: 315-472-2578
Email: Info@openhandtheater.org

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