THEATRE PREVIEW

January 2025 | Volume 247

 

Production image

Chelsey Stuyt Photography

Otosan
by Shizuka Kai, Randi Edmundson & Jess Amy Shead
Little Onion Puppet Co.
Gateway Theatre, Richmond
Feb. 17-22
$23/$13
www.gatewaytheatre.com or 604-270-1812
 BUY TICKETS

A Heartwarming Family Adventure Told Through Puppetry at Gateway Theatre

January 22, 2025, Richmond, BC/ On the traditional lands of the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓-speaking peoples – Following the overwhelming response to last year's Vancouver Children's Festival show,  Gateway Theatre is proud to present Otosan, an beautiful tale of family connection and adventure, running from February 17 to February 22, 2025. Created by Little Onion Puppet Company, this extraordinary performance features stunning puppetry, real wildlife projections, and an original score that captivates audiences of all parents and young kids.  This event is suitable for patrons aged 4 and up.

Otosan was created with the support of Deaf Consultants Caroline Hébert and LadanSahraei to ensure inclusion of people who are Deaf or hard of hearing. To further enhance accessibility, American Sign Language interpretation of the pre-show speech will be available at all performances. There will also be ASL interpretation provided at the talkback on Saturday, February 22 at 10:00 AM. 
Otosan follows Shizu, a curious young girl who hides in her father's suitcase and unexpectedly joins him on a journey to the remote North. Her father, a gruff wildlife videographer, is forced to confront the challenges of both his work and his relationship with his daughter as they encounter snowy owls, white wolves, and grizzly bears. The story unfolds as a heartwarming exploration of love, communication, and the bonds that tie families together. 

Otosan is performed by Randi Edmundson, Shizuka Kai, June Fukumura & Lisa Goebel. Inspiredby the real-life experiences of co-creator Shizuka Kai and her father, a wildlife videographer, Otosan blends personal storytelling with breathtaking visuals and an immersive musical score. "This story is for anyone who has struggled to find the words to connect with the people they love," says Kai. 

Public performances are on Family Day, Monday February 17, as well as from Wednesday, February 19 to Saturday, February 22. School bookings are also available on Wednesday, February 19 to Friday, February 21 at 10:00 am and 1:00 pm. For full information visit https://www.gatewaytheatre.com/events/otosan/

Date

February 17 to February 22, 2025

Venue

Gateway Theatre, Studio B, 6500 Gilbert Road, Richmond BC

Time

Monday February 17, 10:00 am (Family Day)
Wednesday February 19, 10:00 am
Wednesday February 19, 1:00 pm
Thursday February 20, 10:00 am
Thursday February 20, 1:00pm
Friday February 21, 10:00 am
Friday February 21, 1:00 pm
Saturday February 22, 10:00 am – Talkback with American Sign Language Interpretation
Saturday, February 22, 1:00 pm – Relaxed Performance

Ticket price

General Admission tickets are $23, Youth tickets are $13

Box Office         

604-270-1812

Info & Tickets

https://www.gatewaytheatre.com/events/otosan/

About Gateway Theatre

Gateway Theatre is A Stage for Richmond, providing a platform for the whole community to contribute to, and benefit from, the performing arts. It's a place where we can all learn from each other, see ourselves represented, and take pride in the rich cultural landscape that Richmond has to offer.

Gateway provides entry points for audiences and performers in three key areas: Artistic Offerings, Education, and Community Rentals. Through its Artistic Offerings, Gateway produces a breadth of stories that tackle the ideas, values, and issues which reflect the diverse people of this city. Gateway Theatre brings people together through shared artistic experiences that encourage dialogue and exchange. Its Education programming connects youth to the performing arts, including offering classes in acting, singing, and dancing. Where it is most transformative is beyond the stage, building confidence, self-awareness, and a sense of belonging in young people. Gateway's Community Rentals program allows Richmond to celebrate its achievements, with thousands of people coming through our theatre doors each year to participate in events put on by the public. 

We are excited to bring Richmond together through the performing arts.

 

 

 

 

get in touch with vancouverplays:

Vancouverplays: Vancouver's arts and culture website providing theatre news, previews and reviews

vancouverplays

Vancouver's arts and culture website providing theatre news, previews and reviews