UConn Puppet Arts Program Presents PETER AND THE WOLF, 9/22-23

Peter and the Wolf will be performed by UConn Puppet Arts Program with live music by Hugh Keelen Ensemble and narrated by Tony Barrand on Saturday, September 22 at Latchis Theatre, and on Sunday, September 23 at Bellows Falls Opera House, both at 3 p.m. Tickets are $11.

Peter, Grandfather, the Wolf, and other woodland creatures are presented with large, colorful table-top puppets as Sergei Prokofiev’s acclaimed symphony for young audiences is performed live by the Hugh Keelan Ensemble. Woodwind, brass, percussion and string melodies personify each character as Peter courageously captures the Wolf that threatens his forest friends. This delightful production, created by the University of Connecticut Puppet Arts Program and directed by Bart Roccoberton, is narrated by special guest Tony Barrand, known for his British pub songs, ballads, and wry music hall recitations.

"This is a remarkable collaboration, says Eric Bass, festival artistic director. "There are few things more thrilling than bringing artists together for an event that happens just once, (or in this case twice) and therefore, can’t be missed. Hugh has brought together a special ensemble of top musicians, and will present the music in the dynamic context of asking the audience, “What was that kid thinking?”, a question many parents ask themselves. But here is Peter, heading out of the gate with a rope in hand. Is he a match for the wolf? And what is his plan?"

Tony Barrand’s voice is well known to this community, and always brings a delightful sense of humor to the show. Bringing Tony Barrand and Hugh Keelan together, along with the UCONN puppeteers, will make this one of the most compelling performances of Peter and the Wolf imaginable.