Snowflake takes TPAC audiences to magical place
The afternoon of fun at TPAC begins with free, interactive activities at 1 p.m. in the lobby, where Book’em will be giving a book to each child who attends.
Creator Gale LaJoye stars in the colorful one-hour play inspired by a colorful character known as “Snowflake” to the people in his hometown. A master of physical comedy, theater and illusion, LaJoye has toured worldwide, playing to critical and popular acclaim for audiences of all ages.
With childlike innocence and wonder, Snowflake takes audiences into a magical world he has created with discarded objects in a vacant lot. He interacts with toys that have become his companions, performing music and magic for his friends without speaking a word. At times, he appears to float in mid-air, including an astonishing dance to The Nutcracker on skis.
“Snowflake is perfect for our Family Field Trip because it genuinely appeals to children and adults. The action is non-stop in a show filled with humor and surprise. Adults who attend without children will have a great time, too. As we laugh along with this character, an inspiring story with a positive message unfolds. Snowflake reminds us that what’s in our hearts is more important than what we own,” said Lori Ward, Vice President of Communications and Community Relations.
“Part of the fun of the show is just seeing the actor perform. Gale has unique artistic gifts and mastered special skills. I’ve never seen anything like it. He weaves different schools of theatre, comedy, illusion and communication into this one short and surprising performance. It’s fascinating to watch him in action. How in the world does he dance so gracefully on skis or appear to float in mid-air? He constantly amazes and surprises the audience. This is one of the most inventive, engaging and inspiring shows I’ve ever seen,” said Ward.
LaJoye lives in Marquette, Michigan on the shores of Lake Superior in the state’s upper peninsula where he was born and raised. After studying theatre in college, he joined Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, mastering the art of gesture, silent communication, and short story telling as a clown. He later returned to acting, premiering Snowflake in 1990 and touring throughout North America, South America, Asia, and Australia in addition to his work with arts education programs worldwide.
The Family Field Trip series concludes on February 23 with San Jose Taiko, a lively ensemble of drummers blending traditional Japanese sounds with contemporary world rhythms and high-energy choreography.
Two-show packages for Snowflake and San Jose Taiko are $14 per person, offering such incentives as a discount and preferred seating. Subscriptions may be purchased at the TPAC Box Office (Downtown or at Davis-Kidd Booksellers in The Mall at Green Hills), by calling 615/782-6560, or by mail.
Individual tickets for TPAC Family Field Trips are $7 for children twelve and younger, and $10 for adults. For individual tickets, visit www.tpac.org/familyfieldtrip, the TPAC Box Office (Downtown or at Davis-Kidd Booksellers in The Mall at Green Hills), or any Ticketmaster outlet. Tickets may also be purchased by calling Ticketmaster at 615/255-ARTS (2787).
A $2.50 facility fee will be added to the price of each ticket. This fee, previously included within the price of all tickets to TPAC performances, is designated for building renovation and maintenance.
To reserve tickets for groups of 10 or more, please contact TPAC Group Sales at 615-782-4060 or groups@tpac.org.
A limited number of “pay what you can” seats will be available beginning at 1:00 p.m. on the day of each performance. With a minimal contribution to TPAC Education, patrons may gain admission based on an honor system of what they can afford to pay.
For more information, please visit www.tpac.org/familyfieldtrip, or call 615/782-4019 to request a brochure.