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Interview: Michael Sieders (Producer Of ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show’)

Unlike other children’s theatre, this show is not designed to just dazzle and distract, but teach and show the workings of theatre whilst entertaining.

 

Very Hungry 4Michael has a wealth of experience in theatre and film. He has written, directed, produced various creations and also held the position of Operations Manager for the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA). Having toured with many different types of theatre, recently mostly adult contemporary, he is enjoying this show as he sees it as introducing children to theatre and passing on the passion.

Unlike other children’s theatre this is not designed to just dazzle and distract, but teach and show the workings of theatre whilst entertaining.  Michael says that all the puppets and their handlers are completely visible to the audience as they take much-loved children’s books and bring them to life in 3D. He believes that doing such a show helps parents and grandparents reconnect with their children, even when those children are now adult.

This performance is actually four stories: The Very Hungry Caterpillar; The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse; Mister Seahorse; and The Very Lonely Firefly, all of which are true to the aesthetic and the story. The Book/Toy relationship is very important and they want children to figure out the connections. Eric Carle’s stories are very iconic and have introduced millions of children worldwide to the wonderful experience of reading.

Michael says he has greatly enjoyed the collaboration with the New York Puppet Kitchen and is appreciative of their help in working out the mechanics of the show and in getting it on the road.  When asked if this was a difficult show to travel, Michael replied, “No, not difficult just BIG. Aside from 75 puppets there are just four performers and two crew who are very carefully choreographed on stage and backstage.”

When asked what the outstanding feature of the show is Michael thought for a moment and then replied, “How true they are to the books, they are the star of the show.

Michael when asked what he would say to the audience replied, “Come and have fun, don’t worry about theatre rules. Clap and cheer, bring your books with you and just have fun!

The short Adelaide season of The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show runs from 9 – 11 July 2015 at the Adelaide Festival Centre Thursday – Saturday, 10.30 am & 1 pm. There are additional 3pm performances on Friday and Saturday.

Ticket prices: $35 full (+ transaction fee). Children under the age of 2 are free but must sit on their parent/guardian’s lap.

There is a special offer to see the show $25 for all tickets – code word HUNGRY. Available until the 8/7 at : –http://www.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au/shows/the-very-hungry-caterpillar-show/

 www.hungrycaterpillarshow.com

 

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