WEST BRATTLEBORO — Theatre Adventure's Wednesday Troupe has created a new spring production, The Seeking Traveler and the Cloudworld, written for them by Maia Gilmour. From last year's show, the Curious Child character has grown up and, through great courage and with the aid of many magical characters, searches the oceanwide world for “the most beautiful art for all to enjoy.”
The troupe sums up the plot: “Up in the clouds, the world is bright with sunshine and dew. The air feels soft and misty, and though it is slightly chilled, the temperature feels comfortable. Noticing dancing and laughter a few paces ahead, the Seeking Traveler sees what must be the Mistmakers. Reaching their hands high into the misty air, the Seeking Travelers wave. The Mistmakers provide a warm greeting of giggles and lead the Seeking Traveler to a doorway in the clouds.”
This fairytale has called upon the Wednesday Troupe to utilize a breadth of expressive arts for developing such unique characters as: Thunderfriends, Waterbirds, Selkies, Flying Horses, the Whirling Winds, Mistmakers, and the Goddess of the Clouds.
“The inclusive troupe has woven together with originality and artistry a beautiful spring production,” notes a news release. “All of the actors are passionate performers with a diversity of talents and disabilities.” Movement and dance will be included, as the actors have developed specific movements that bring to life their different characters. Their artwork is being used for scenic design.
Original songs written by Rich Nethercott help to tell the tale of the Seeking Travelers' journey, while movement/sound artist Sher Levesque created original soundscapes to support the movement work of the actors.
Theatre Adventure's mission is “to provide a caring and creative community for artists with disabilities to claim the stage with distinction.” They are committed to accessibility. ASL interpreters are provided for all of their shows, whether online or in-person. Their productions are sensory-friendly and appropriate for all ages.
They request in-person audience members wear a mask to protect the health of their actors. In-person performances will take place Wednesday through Friday, May 17–19, at 10:30 a.m. at the wheelchair-accessible West Village Meeting House, 29 South Street. An online streaming performance will be presented on Saturday, May 20, at 6 p.m.
Tickets are sold on a sliding scale, beginning at $10, and are available online (theatreadventure.org) or at the door the day of the performance. School groups are welcome. Group rates are available. For more information, contact them at [email protected] or 802-387-0765.