Peter And The Wolf

Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf has often served as the textbook example of teaching music appreciation to children, and this excellent puppet production achieves that and much more. Director and puppeteer Jim Gamble introduces the show by explaining how he handles "rod" puppetry: that is, puppets made to flit and jump across a carefully lighted stage, while the puppeteer--dressed completely in black--operates the puppets unseen. The program begins by introducing the "puppet" Prokofiev, who explains the selection of instruments to represent each of the animal characters in "Peter and the Wolf." As the play begins, and we see a puppet that is part boy and part violin, a recurrent joke is introduced (Prokofiev corrects his mistake and changes the "boy violin" to just a boy), which humorously reinforces the connection between character and instrument. The traditional story of the boy who outfoxes the wolf is updated with wonderful contemporary humor. Following the play is a separate segment entitled "The Making of Peter and the Wolf" which offers a fascinating step-by-step explanation of how the puppeteer conducts his art. An excellent production. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. (Available from: Bogner Entertainment, Inc., 14900 Ventura Blvd., Suite 330, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403.)