Emperor’s
New Clothes’ modernizes wardrobe
By Jack Schneider
On-line Forty-Niner
A
ghastly monarch, a sneaky trick by a peasant
and an immaculate gown are the highlights
in the International City Theater production
of “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” adapted
by writer Emily Dodi.
The show is a modernized version of the
famous children’s play, with a few little
twists according to Public Affairs Director
Nikki Palley.
“There are a lot of jokes for both children
and adults,” Palley said. “For instance
there is a news reporter whose name is Rula
Thumb.”
An emperor goes through all the trouble
to find the perfect outfit. Later he hires
a peasant, who tricks the king into getting
a lavish outfit, but really it is an ugly
cloak.
“Only the wise can see the outfit,” Palley
said.
Palley said that audiences will enjoy the
goofy personality of the king.
“The king is seen as a bafoonish character,”
Palley said.
Artistic director Shashin Desai said that
the production is targeted for people of
all ages.
“This play is made for the entire family,”
Desai said. “Many people come
and see the production and it brings the
community together”
This is the theater’s ninth production for
its Saturday family theater series and it
is expected to bring in an enthusiastic
crowd.
“People have written us little notes saying
‘this is a treasure’ and ‘this is a gift
to the city.’” Palley said.
Previously, the theater has done workshops
on mimery and presented the history of musical
theater in 42 minutes and 28 seconds.
The theater has also presented workshops
on teaching children how to make a puppet.
Dasai said that the actors within the performances
are involved in teaching kids the skills
on acting, presented in the workshop “Shakespearience.”
“The players teach the children how to be
Shakespearean actors,” Desai said.
Palley said that children will enjoy the
calamity and slapstick humor the play offers.
“There are a lot of verbal gags and a lot
of physical [comedy]” Palley said.
“The Emperor’s New Clothes” will be playing
at 11 a.m. on Saturday at the International
City Theater. Tickets are free. For more
information students can call (562) 436-4610.
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