As part of its Spring Puppet Performance Series, the Ballard Institute presents "Hao Bang Ah, Sheep!" by Chinese Theatre Works on Saturday, April 11 at 1 and 3 p.m. This variety-style program directed by Kuang-Yu Fong and Stephen Kaplin, stars the current animal in the Zodiac cycle and features a set of beautifully carved and costumed hand puppets performing traditional choreographies.
The show features a jolly selection of hand puppet vignettes, many based on popular songs and well-known Chinese sayings. While some parts of the program are performed in Chinese, all include English translations and explanations. The audience will be introduced to some of the other animals of the Chinese zodiac. They will also learn about such Chinese New Year customs and foods as red envelopes, fish and “nian gao”, Lion dances, and End-of-Year Monsters. Audience participation--sing-alongs, games, and a post-show hands-on demonstration--make this Chinese culture and language learning experience accessible to even the youngest audience member. Co-sponsored by the Asian and Asian American Studies Institute.
Ticket Prices: Adults: $10; Students: $7; Kids: $5
Tickets will be sold in advance through the Connecticut Repertory Theatre Box Office located in the lobby of the Nafe Katter Theatre at 820 Bolton Rd, Storrs CT 06269. Tickets may be purchased in person at the box office, by calling (860) 486-2113, or online through the CRT website. A $3.00 surcharge will be added to any purchases made online or over the phone. Tickets may be purchased at the Ballard Institute on the days of performances. There will be a limited number of seats.
For more information, contact: Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry at (860)486-8580 or bimp@uconn.edu