reviews - A THOUSAND CRANES - Childsplay

Elizabeth Polen, Michelle Chin and Nathan DeLaTorre
(photo: Tim Trumble)

"touches the heart and communicates in ways only live theatre can, it also presents the opportunity of discussing action and themes with your children in the car ride home that might ordinarily have never come up. Director Dwayne Hartford’s production presents its story with grace, poise and theatrical precision.  It’s amazing that in such a short amount of time, so many important themes, issues and traditions are explored in a manner that can’t help but inspire young minds to want to learn more." -David Appleford, Valley Screen and Stage (click here to read the complete review)

"Based on a true story, A Thousand Cranes tells the tale of twelve-year-old Sadako and her quest to make 1,000 paper cranes in order to save her life. This 45-minute play about peace and hope is a bit heavier, compared to other upbeat Childsplay favorites like The Cat in the Hat and Junie B. Jones. Yet, it is a perfect vehicle to discuss historical events with children and the continued struggle for peace in the world.  The production is beautifully achieved and uses elements of Japanese Noh Theatre, one of the oldest styles of theatre, to help set the tone and location of the play. Director Dwayne Hartford expertly combines the elements of tradition, folklore, stylized movement, and the sound of percussion instruments to bring Sadako's story to life." -Gil Benbrook, Talkin' Broadway (click here to read the complete review)