Sunday, Dec. 10 at 2 p.m.—WOODSTOCK—Woodstock Town Hall Theatre will be visited by puppeteers Dan Baginski and Barbara Paulson’s traveling stage, which transforms any space into an intimate theater. Experience the seamless blend of movement, music and masterful manipulation captivates young and old alike. With puppeteers in full view, the audience sees how the puppets are brought to life.
This Sunday, No Strings Marionettes will perform, “The Snow Maiden,” a Russian folk tale adapted into various literary works and operas, that tells the story of Snegurochka, a girl crafted from snow by the lonely couple, Kupava and Mizgir, who long for a child. With the help of the Winter Witch, Snegurochka is brought to life but is bestowed with a heart that cannot know love or warmth. As she grows, Snegurochka is drawn to the world of humans, yearning to experience love and emotions. In the village of Berendey, she encounters the shepherd boy, Lel, and falls deeply in love with him. However, her inability to feel love becomes a tragic obstacle in their relationship. As winter transitions to spring, Snegurochka’s heart softens, and she begins to experience the stirrings of love. Yet, this newfound emotion spells her doom, as her heart, now capable of love, cannot withstand the warmth of the sun. Despite Lel’s devotion and their brief moments of happiness, Snegurochka ultimately melts away in a poignant finale. “The Snow Maiden” is a tale of love, longing, and the fleeting nature of happiness. It explores themes of the human desire for connection, the bittersweetness of unattainable yearnings, and the transient beauty of life. This classic Russian folktale serves as a reminder of the fragility of emotions and the inevitability of change.
The Vermont artisans lovingly handcraft the marionettes, props and scenery. whether for an original tale or an adaptation of a classic.
Titles currently available are “The Adventures of Sharp Ears,” “Bully for the Three Pigs,” “Wasabi, a Dragon’s Tale,” “Treasure Hunt,” “Handsome and Gretel,” “The Snowmaiden,” “Jack and the Beanstalk,” “Nick of Time,” “The Hobbit,” and “Scrooge: A Christmas Carol.”
Shows begin with an interactive songand conclude with demonstrations of the craft. Once the mind believes there are no strings …this realm becomes real…and the Adventure begins!
The Woodstock Town Hall Theatre is located at 31 The Green in Woodstock. Tickets: $10 Adults | Kids 16 and Under are Free. For more information, visit: pentanglearts.org
.
Courtesy Pentangle Arts
