Children’s theatre-UBCO production will keep audiences on the move

The Bumbershoot Theatre space is about to be invaded by UBCO Creative Studies students for an original production of “Animals,” April 20-29.

Bumbershoot Artistic Director Tracy Ross said the students are working to animate every nook of the building.

“Animals will inhabit the space like an invasion of nesting beasts,” she explained, “with audience members moving throughout the space making† unexpected discoveries .”

The UBCO-Bumbershoot coproduction is being produced with Neil Cadger, associate professor of interdisciplinary performance in the Department of Creative Studies.

Masters student Jenn Furlong will support the team of 14 students who will employ mask, puppet and object theatre performance techniques to bring fables, legends and myths to life in the most unexpected settings.

Ross commented: “This production will be unlike anything our audiences at Bumbershoot have ever experienced, and it will be designed for all ages from children to adults.”

Animals will be presented on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 6.30 with Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. , April 20-23 and 27-29 at Bumbershoot Theatre at 125 — 1295 Cannery Lane.

Tickets are available at the Bumbershoot Box Office, online or by calling 778-478-0142.

Ross said that the themes covered will include helping others, friendship, adventure, family, love, loyalty and courage.

“Bumbershoot is very excited about this collaboration with UBCO and the opportunity it gives us to support up and coming artists and students,” she said.

More information is available on the Bumbershoot website at bu mb er shoot theatre com.