Hard to believe, but it was one year ago precisely that a friend told me about the story of "The Speaking Bird." She said that it was a tale from the Arabian Nights stories that she had only just become aware of. She had been struck by the notion that it would make a great Children's Theater play or better yet, a musical. I happened to be looking for a new project at just that moment. She liked the piece because it was not a romantic "love" story, but a reuniting of a family "love" story. When I read it, I liked it because it had great elements that make for good theater: mystery, comedy, magic, fantasy characters --- and a bonus for children's theater --- the opportunity for good roles for more than one GIRL. A beautiful "weeping" Queen, a "lost" princess, a clever storyteller, two jealous sisters, Gypsy dancers, and the magical Speaking Bird.
Creating a fantasy character that must be acted by a human can be a daunting task --- unless you have a great model for inspiration. One of my friends has a bigger than life persona and a rare and unique personality. I informed her frankly one day that I intended to model a character for my new play after her. And, in her inimitable fashion, she answered, "Absolutely! I have always thought that I would make a great character. You'll have to invite me to see the show!" So, with permission granted, I set off to give Shazelle, the Speaking Bird the funniest lines and the sassiest attitude possible! Thank you, Anne-Marie St. Felix!
But, then there is the casting dilemma. As a director, you wonder if you will have a young actress come to audition with the talent and ability to pull off such a character. Fortunately, just such a girl showed up. Lizzie Jensen was perfect for the role. She summoned enough inner "sassy attitude" to play this over the top character and even learned how to do a tap dance routine for the Finale! Way to go, Lizzie!
Here are the two of them together after the last show of "Parizade's Quest." And as Shazelle, herself, says in the play, "Girl, I am here to make sure the story is told right! I am the magic and mystery! Comedy, too!" And she really was! This wonderful fantasy character was a pure delight! "And trust me, honey! I am telling the absolute truth!"
Creating a fantasy character that must be acted by a human can be a daunting task --- unless you have a great model for inspiration. One of my friends has a bigger than life persona and a rare and unique personality. I informed her frankly one day that I intended to model a character for my new play after her. And, in her inimitable fashion, she answered, "Absolutely! I have always thought that I would make a great character. You'll have to invite me to see the show!" So, with permission granted, I set off to give Shazelle, the Speaking Bird the funniest lines and the sassiest attitude possible! Thank you, Anne-Marie St. Felix!
But, then there is the casting dilemma. As a director, you wonder if you will have a young actress come to audition with the talent and ability to pull off such a character. Fortunately, just such a girl showed up. Lizzie Jensen was perfect for the role. She summoned enough inner "sassy attitude" to play this over the top character and even learned how to do a tap dance routine for the Finale! Way to go, Lizzie!
Here are the two of them together after the last show of "Parizade's Quest." And as Shazelle, herself, says in the play, "Girl, I am here to make sure the story is told right! I am the magic and mystery! Comedy, too!" And she really was! This wonderful fantasy character was a pure delight! "And trust me, honey! I am telling the absolute truth!"
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