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Heartwarming family adventure told through puppetry at Gateway Theatre

By Richmond Sentinel

Published 2:45 PST, Wed January 22, 2025

Last Updated: 2:46 PST, Wed January 22, 2025

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 Feb. 17 - 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 Ladan Sahraei 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, Feb. 22 at 10 a.m.

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. Inspired by 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 Feb. 17, as well as from Wednesday, Feb.19 to Saturday, Feb. 22. School bookings are also available on Wednesday, Feb. 19 to Friday, Feb. 21 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. For full information visit gatewaytheatre.com/events/otosan/

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