By Rachel Hulsart, Marketing Intern
We at Enchantment Theatre Company are excited to introduce to you The Brave Little Tailor, our newest Enchantment Everywhere production that is based on the Grimm Brothers fairy tale of the same name. When a feisty little tailor kills seven flies with one blow in his workshop, he gains an air of confidence as he proudly displays Seven Dead in One Blow on his sash while walking about town. Many are stunned to see his sash as they assume that he killed seven knights in one blow rather than flies. Because of this misunderstanding, he ends up facing the challenges of defeating two giants, a rhinoceros, and a ferocious dragon from the kingdom where he would be rewarded by having the Princess’ hand in marriage.
In German culture, a tailor used to be seen as the poorest of the poor, and his value would be mocked by saying “Nine tailors make one man.” However, a tailor was also viewed in German culture as someone who would surprise everyone with his wit. The tailor in this story uses his wit to overcome the challenges he faces by thinking on his feet. The Grimm Brothers were interested in making the main character a tailor in order to inspire people to not let their outward appearance prevent them from accessing the power and wit they have inside them. So for the kids reading this out there, know that you are not too small to accomplish anything. Just use your brains, wit, and courage!
At an Enchantment Theatre Company performance, audience members of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to explore creative worlds and embrace the experience of live theater. Enchantment Theatre is dedicated to a unique style of performance by including expressive masks, puppetry, magic, music, movement and pantomime in our productions. In The Brave Little Tailor, we will again use these performance modes to create a world where, for a moment, kids will share a space with a giant, see a battle with a dragon and witness the courage of a simple man. It is our hope to create a magical experience for all ages, one where a child can dream big.
The Brave Little Tailor will be touring the five-county area from April 27th to June 12th. There will also be public performances at three local venues:
- Sunday, May 10th / 2:00pm / Free Library of Philadelphia, 1901 Vine Street / FREE for everyone
- Sunday, May 31st / 11:00am & 12:00pm / Smith Memorial Playground, 3500 Reservoir Drive / FREE for members
- Saturday, June 6th / 2:00pm / Morris Arboretum, 100 E. Northwestern Avenue / FREE with admission
Are you an educator or presenter that is interested in bringing Enchantment Theatre Company to your school or venue? Contact us at 215-496-9160.