Dutch Theatre for Children

by Manon van de Water

Three contemporary plays from the Netherlands, with introductions, production pictures, music notes, and an appreciation of Dutch Theatre today. 126 pp. . $ 15.95

Here are three contemporary cutting edge plays from a country notable for extending the boundaries of theatre for young audiences:

"Hibernation," by Heleen Verburg. In a cozy hole, Jack, her parents, and her only friend, a stick insect named Brochitis, sleep the winter and sumer away. But Jack wants to wake up.

"The House of Dreams," concept and direction by Moniek Merkz, text by Jan Veldman. An extraordinary cast of characters, rarely found in theatre for young people, take their audience on a tour through a house that includes hallways, stairs, courtyards, a love room, and, ultimately, a theatre.

"On the Other Side," by Roel Adam. The Old Bridge and the River, shattered by war, are both reality and metaphor to two children, on opposite sides and cultures, who try to make sense of their postwar world.

The riches of this volume include an overview of the theatre scene in the Netherlands, interviews with the authors, production photographs, and accounts of productions of the plays in their home theatres and in the U.S.A. This book is an invaluable resource for students and scholars in the theatre and practice of theatre for young audiences, and a challenge to American theatres and directors looking for material that breaks new ground.

"What is so impressive about theatre in the Netherlands and Flanders is the integrity of the work for children. From outstanding scripts to exceptional production values, the Netherlands and Flanders illustrate what theatre can and should be for children."
Maranne P. Welch, Executive Director
Pittsburgh Children's Festival.

"Simply, this is the bravest, most daring, kindest, and most carefully nurtured young people's theatre in the world."
Brian Joyce, Director
Philadelphia International Festival for Children

"The most amazing and innovative theatre for youth I had ever seen."
Linda Hartzell, Seattle Children's Theatre