“Cuentos del Árbol” is designed to bring Spanish to life and make theatre accessible to students, parents and grandparents for whom English is a second language.
The centerpiece of all the “tales” is a tree (Un Árbol) that has sheltered, shielded and nurtured countless characters who have passed her way over the years. The tree’s caretaker, Arbolita, shares four of these stories with Tomas, a storyteller, who is looking for tales for his collection.
The tales include The Garden of the Golden Oranges, Brothers Who Were Both Wise and Foolish, Juan Bobo (Silly John) and Caperucita Roja (Red Riding Hood), a perennial favorite in both Spanish and English households. A spirited finale is designed to send audiences home with “dancing feet, clapping hands and happy hearts.”
Book & Lyrics – Ruth Fost
Spanish Translations – Felipe Gorostiza
Music & Orchestrations – Larry Hochman
Director – Paul Whelihan
Choreographer – Stacie Gogo
Scenic & Costume Designer – Ruth Fost