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Carranza Puppets feature Carol and David Carranza, who are the puppeteers presenting their production of "Beauty and the Beast." Mr. and Mrs. Carranza live in
Houston, Texas where they build their shows in their studio to present to elementary school children all around the Houston area, and across the state of Texas.
This year's production of "Beauty and the Beast" is adapted from the original
fairy tale by Madame de Villenuve. It was first published in France as a collection of stories in 1740-1741. This production is performed on an elaborate
and richly curtained marionette stage, followed by an OPTIONAL marionette variety show performed in front of the marionette stage in full view of the audience.
"Beauty and the Beast" features magnificent music which David Carranza and
Lee Martin have written especially for this play. There are eight one-third life-sized and realistic marionettes in the play, plus the marionettes featured in the
optional variety show. Performance time is 55 minutes with the variety show.
It is suggested that a traditional version of "Beauty and the Beast" might be
read to the class so that everyone is familiar with this well-known fairy tale. This often adds to the children's enjoyment of seeing Carranza Puppet's marionette
play. It would also be helpful to discuss how Disney's version is often very different from the original story especially if that is the version read to your students.
It is also requested that the teacher explain theater manners to the students
and the importance of their use during the performance. |
