Event

The Selfish Giant

Written by Maria Burnham
Directed by Maria Burnham & Miona Lee
Based on the short story by Oscar Wilde

Starring: Jean E. Burr, Tamsen Glaser, Molly Gloeckner, Sophia Hail, Nate Hall, Sarah-Lucy Hill, Karissa Kosman, Song Marshall, Daniela Martinez, Maggie Blair Smith and Zoe Savransky.

At the edge of the village was a large lovely garden with soft green grass and and beautiful flowers like stars. And every afternoon, as they were coming from school, the children use to go and play in the garden. But the garden belonged to a giant who has been away for seven years. Upon returning he is outraged to see the children enjoying themselves on his land and he builds a big wall to keep them out and puts up a notice that reads: TRESPASSERS WILL BE PROSECUTED. But without the children, the garden falls into perpetual winter and the Selfish Giant finds himself isolated and all alone.

Based on Oscar Wilde's short story of the same name, "The Selfish Giant" is a story that illustrates the perils of isolation and the negative consequences of selfishness, but it also teaches us that it is never too late for redemption and for love.

This production will intrigue children and parents alike, not just with its story, but with its method of storytelling. The adaptation uses a chorus of actors to embody human characters and mythical beasts, while building the world of trees, birds, benches and beasts with their bodies. This physical theater piece relies almost completely on the ensemble of actors telling the story.

"The Selfish Giant" is part of our Nightlight young audiences series.