Renowned Italian puppet company Teatro Gioco Vita performs Sonia and Alfred, the stage adaptation of the children’s books by author and illustrator Catherine Pineur, Va-t’en, Alfred! (Vai via, Alfredo) and T’es là, Alfred? (Ci sei, Alfred?)
Sonia & Alfred
performed by
Teatro Gioco Vita
Saturday, May 18 | 11:00AM & 4:00PM
Sunday, May 19 | 11:00AM & 2:00PM
All performances will be in English
Ages 4+
ALUMNAE THEATRE
70 Berkely St | Toronto ON
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS
WeeFestival runs from May 9 to June 9, 2024
Alfred has fled his home and is searching for refuge. None of the other birds will welcome him and tell him to go away! But one day, he arrives at Sonia’s home, and a beautiful friendship begins. A wonderful story about finding home, belonging, friendship, and family told through exquisite theatre and shadow puppetry. (4 yrs +)
Sonia and Alfred is a simple, delicate and moving story about friendship and solidarity. It’s about what happens when we experience exclusion and solitude; about that comforting feeling when we find a home and a friend; about how we feel when we find the courage to face unknown situations for someone else’s sake.
Sonia and Alfred is told through few, essential words and puppets drawn simply but to great effect. Figures that on the white shadow theatre screen come to life thanks to the presence of two actors / animators and become characters that are able to represent, through clean gestures and touching simplicity, the great themes of life.
Presented by WeeFestival. Co-Presented by the Istituto Italiano di Cultura Toronto.
ABOUT TEATRO GIOCO VITA
Teatro Gioco Vita, established in 1971, stands as one of Italy’s pioneering entities in the realm of theatrical animation. Since its inception, it has played a pivotal role in shaping children’s theatre, offering a distinct approach to the art form and fostering a profound engagement with theatre, relationships, research, and culture. In the late 1970s, the company embraced the world of shadow theatre, embarking on a journey marked by unwavering dedication and professional integrity. Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to excellence, Teatro Gioco Vita has cultivated a unique expertise that has garnered recognition and prestigious partnerships worldwide. Its collaborations span renowned institutions such as Teatro La Fenice in Venice, the Royal Opera House Covent Garden in London, Teatro alla Scala in Milan, and many others. Recognized by both the Ministry for Cultural Heritage and Activities and the Emilia Romagna Region as a Center for Theatre Production, under the visionary leadership of Diego Maj, the company encompasses a diverse range of endeavors. From its engagement with schools and youth through laboratory activities to the innovative productions and research conducted at the Shadow Workshop, Teatro Gioco Vita serves as a hub for creativity and exploration. In Piacenza, its theatres—Teatro Filodrammatici, Teatro Municipale, and Teatro Gioia—provide a vibrant space for theatrical festivals, cultural exchanges, and artistic development, both locally and internationally. Beyond its regional commitments, Teatro Gioco Vita embraces an increasingly global perspective, showcasing its shadow theatre performances across continents, from Europe to the Americas, Asia, and beyond. With each endeavor, the company continues to push boundaries, opening new horizons for children, youth, and audiences worldwide, while reaffirming its dedication to artistic innovation and cultural exchange.
ABOUT WeeFestival
Now entering its 10th anniversary season, WeeFestival is dedicated to the presentation of inspiring theatre and performing arts created especially for children 0-6 years and their families, curating a dynamic and culturally diverse mix of productions from around the world and across the country from leading companies and artists specializing in this field.
