The New Pied Piper: Take One Step
Manteo Festival Park (Outdoor Amphitheatre) | Director and Writer: Gerald Freedman
The New Pied Piper-Take One Step, a rock musical with a modern take on a classic story is a show for children of all ages. Written by Gerald Freeman and John Morris it immediately sets the audience up for a fun filled experience full of lively music, energetic rats and comedic mayhem.
It was important that the story take place in a world similar to that which we live in every day yet with a twist, something to make it seem acceptingly odd with a cartoon quality.
The piper, coming in to save the day is almost absurdly dressed, giving the impression that he is from another world or place, similar to the concept of Oz. He is bright and colorful, fun loving for all children and he quickly becomes even more appealing due to his individuality.
The rats, while mischievous and meddlesome are extremely diverting. They’re more like unruly children than scary and grotesque rodents. They are lively and energetic which is reflected in their costumes. Their mismatched and patchwork clothes give the essence of a rag tag gang of troublemakers while keeping them relatable. By doing this it becomes easier to identify with for children than a repulsive rodent to society which could also subconsciously suggest to children the repercussions of unruliness.
The combination of bright colors and fun shapes and patterns should leave the children with a sense of whimsy. The hope is to inspire the kids to push the limits of their own imagination. For the future of theatre is only as good as the imaginations and creativity we bring into it. As such, these thoughts and ideas should be stimulated and encouraged.
It was important that the story take place in a world similar to that which we live in every day yet with a twist, something to make it seem acceptingly odd with a cartoon quality.
The piper, coming in to save the day is almost absurdly dressed, giving the impression that he is from another world or place, similar to the concept of Oz. He is bright and colorful, fun loving for all children and he quickly becomes even more appealing due to his individuality.
The rats, while mischievous and meddlesome are extremely diverting. They’re more like unruly children than scary and grotesque rodents. They are lively and energetic which is reflected in their costumes. Their mismatched and patchwork clothes give the essence of a rag tag gang of troublemakers while keeping them relatable. By doing this it becomes easier to identify with for children than a repulsive rodent to society which could also subconsciously suggest to children the repercussions of unruliness.
The combination of bright colors and fun shapes and patterns should leave the children with a sense of whimsy. The hope is to inspire the kids to push the limits of their own imagination. For the future of theatre is only as good as the imaginations and creativity we bring into it. As such, these thoughts and ideas should be stimulated and encouraged.