Ping Chong and Chinese Theater Works Bring Epic Puppet Theatre to Hunter College
Hunter College is set to host a unique and immersive theatrical experience this spring, featuring the groundbreaking work of Ping Chong and her company, Chinese theatre Works. This collaboration promises a rich exploration of Chinese history, culture, and performance art for both students and the wider community.
An Unforgettable Performance: Cathay
You’ll have the prospect to witness Cathay: Three Tales of China (2005), a truly epic puppet theatre production. This enterprising work spans centuries,weaving together stories from China’s ancient past,its wartime struggles,and its remarkable modern change.
The production is a visual and auditory feast, employing over 150 puppets alongside evocative recorded soundscapes and dynamic video projections. Cathay delves into the themes of continuity and change, offering a profound reflection on China’s enduring spirit. Following the screening, a stimulating discussion will take place. Theatre professor Claudia Orenstein and Stephen Kaplin, a key puppet artist with Chinese Theatre Works and a founding member of Great Small Works, will lead the conversation.
A Deepening Partnership with Academia
This event represents a notable expansion of a long-standing relationship between Ping Chong’s company and university programs. Hunter College students will benefit from a variety of exclusive opportunities. thes include an artist lunch with Ping Chong herself, insightful class visits, and a unique co-taught course.
“Multicultural Theatre Performance: Engaging Community Voices and Stories” will introduce students to the Undesirable Elements methodology. This innovative approach focuses on community-based storytelling, empowering individuals to share their own narratives. Dongshin Chang and Chaesong kim, the interim education manager for Pink Fang, will instruct the course, with special guest appearances from Sara Zatz, Pink Fang’s artistic director of engagement.
Expanding the Reach of Socially Engaged Performance
Looking ahead, Pink Fang is extending its academic partnerships to LaGuardia Community College and The New School. This expansion aims to foster a deeper dialog between the world of academia and the power of socially engaged performance practise.
The Hunter College Theatre department enthusiastically welcomes this collaboration. According to department chair Louisa Thompson, these opportunities are invaluable for their diverse student body. She expressed excitement about extending this enriching experience to the broader community.
Support the Arts
A thriving theatre ecosystem relies on access to details and support for the arts. Consider joining Theatre Communications Group (TCG) to contribute to a long legacy of quality nonprofit arts journalism and receive their quarterly print magazine.
Related reading