Emil and The Detectives

Date: Until Jan 6 — 10:30 am/2:30 pm/7:30 pm

Venue: Art Space for Kids, Shanghai

When Young Emil catches a train to visit his family in the big city, a valuable item is stolen. However, the thief soon discovers that Emil is not an easy target. A group of quick-thinking and resourceful children rallies around.

Erich Kastner’s 1929 novella is more than just a good romp, as it broke ground for the independent-children-versus-devious-adults story genre. Streetwise city kids, a hardworking single mother and Emil’s past brush with the law add grit and nuance to this satisfying tale. Emil and the Detectives is narrated by two skilled actors immersed in smoke and mirrors, miniature worlds and a cinematic score.