The books of Canadian children’s author Robert Munsch were a huge part of my childhood. Some of my earliest bedtime story memories involve The Paper Bag Princess (a fun, feminist read), Thomas’ Snowsuit (wonderfully comedic), or A Promise is a Promise (which truly frightened me – in a delectable way.)
I’ve since learned that his stories are inspired by real kids he’s met. Munsch publishes about 2 books every year, and though he struggles with mental health and addiction problems – which he is open about – he’s successfully published 54 books.
Whenever I delve into Children’s Theatre with my students, I’m drawn to his classics. Now, I could just pick up the collection of scripted stage adaptations, Munsch at Play. But I prefer when you, my students, create the adaptations yourselves. Your interpretations are flexible with regards to gender, well-suited to your own comedic strengths, and innovative. For instance – Stephanie’s Ponytale once became a story about Stephanie’s weave. Or more recently about Stephanie’s bows, backwards shirts, and shoeless style.
As you work on your adaptations, consider the children’s theatre pics below for added inspiration. Note the bright colours, exaggerated facial expressions, and minimalist sets. These things will help entertain and focus young audience members…
I love the use of boxes, the exaggerated gestures, and the painted-on-brick sky…
Bright costuming! From LKTYP’s “I Think I Can.”
From “Munsch Alley,” by Robert Munsch, which played in Vancouver in 2009. (vancouverplays.com)
IN THE ROUND 