'Theatre for Youth' performance highlights global folktales
"Ring the Bells for Peace" performers include, from left, Rosy Hernandez, Martina Lawson-Hines, and Kunpeng "Kevin" Wang. (Photo: Luiza Silva)
- October 20, 2009
“Ring the Bells for Peace,” a playful showcase of global folktales focusing on children’s inherent affability, will be presented during the holiday season by Cal State East Bay.
The performances were written by local student playwrights and are directed by A. Fajilan and Eric Kupers, assistant professors of theatre and dance. The shows, incorporating storytellers, dancers, actors, musicians, angels and several children from Bonnie Hansen’s class of third and fourth graders from Harder Elementary School in Hayward, will be performed at 8 p.m. Dec. 11, and 3 and 7 p.m. Dec. 12 in the University Theatre, 25800 Carlos Bee Blvd., Hayward.
As the story unfolds, Steven, a “problem” child, finds a magic bell. Whenever he feels sad and confused, he rings the bell and animated performers play out a story that makes him laugh. Ultimately the stories help him understand how to deal with difficult situations at school, with bullies and family.
Steven escapes into the stories – dealing with sadness, revenge and abandonment – and discovers how other children are able to find creative solutions to their daily problems.
“Children of all ages will be delighted with these whimsical stories,” says Fajilan. “‘Ring the Bells for Peace’ puts Worldbeat on our local stage to remind us that during tough times, our shared humanity can reach beyond borders.”
The cast and crew will collect donations of non-perishable food from audience members for the Alameda Food Bank.
Tickets at $12 general, $6 youth/senior/alumni, or $5 for CSUEB students and children 12 and under, may be reserved at http://class.csueastbay.edu/theatre/Ticket_Reservations.php or by calling (510) 885-3118.
For the past two decades, CSUEB has scheduled affordable, special performances of its Theatre for Youth shows for area schools. To bring your class to see "Ring the Bells for Peace," call (510) 885-3118.
CSUEB welcomes persons with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodation upon request. Please notify event sponsor in advance at (510) 885-3118, if accommodation is needed.