Press Release: Chinese Theatre Works Presents Adaptation of Classic Chinese Tale with a Western Twist

Dec 4, 2009 - Chinese Theatre Works Presents Adaptation of Classic Chinese Tale with a Western Twist


The LICM Theater will be the setting for the premiere performances of “Monkey King in America,” the newest production in Chinese Theatre Works’ extensive repertoire. The new production combines the traditional art form of hand and glove puppetry with a new slant on the centuries-old story of the mischievous Monkey King. The performances will debut on Monday, December 28 at 1 and 3 p.m.
In this new production, mischievous Monkey’s journey continues as he finds himself transported to a new and strange location – America! Navigating across this strange land, is further complicated when the inquisitive Monkey confronts unimaginable obstacles in the form of technology, pop culture, and an interesting animal or two.
The new production has been timed to debut at the start of the holiday break week ensuring a wide audience for this exciting performance. The break week finds the LICM Theater busy every day with live music concerts, as well as short films celebrating the holiday and the winter season.
Visitors to LICM during this period will also have the chance to learn more about this classic Chinese character and Chinese culture and values with a tour of the traveling exhibit, Monkey King: A Story from China, at LICM through January 3, 2010.
“We are delighted that LICM audiences will have the ‘first look’ at an exciting new performance that offers them another entry point to learn about the enduring Monkey King character,” explained Suzanne LeBlanc, executive director, Long Island Children’s Museum.
Chinese Theatre Works is a non-profit theatre company whose mission is to preserve and promote the traditional Chinese performing arts (including opera, shadow theatre, puppetry, dance and music); to create new works that bridge Eastern and Western aesthetics and forms; and to foster understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture in audiences, students, artists and educators around the globe.

The performances by Chinese Theatre Works at LICM follow on the successful appearance of the company at the Shanghai International Arts Festival in China.

All activities will be held at the Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Avenue, Garden City, NY. Children must be accompanied by an adult. General Museum admission: $10 for adults and children over 1 year old. Under 1 year old FREE. $9 seniors. Additional fees for theater and special programs may apply. For additional information, contact 516-224-5800.