Olive & Pearl is specifically created for the very young child, ages 2-5. Centered on thematic elements of home, it is the story of a young girl, Olive, who is lovingly being raised by her Granny, Pearl. Intimately staged, audiences sit within Olive & Pearl’s home, which is made out of a dome of soft felts, crocheted squares, and colorful fabrics. Throughout their day Granny builds fires, warms tea, makes meals and has a comforting lap with safe arms to rock Olive to sleep. The characters play fairy house, go on an imaginary journey to the moon and learn the Jig. Metaphors of home are woven throughout the set and story; there is a robins’ nest above the window, a mouse’s hole, and a fish in its bowl. The moon, which is an elegantly carved wooden puppet, pearlescent in color, plays a significant role within the home as an unseen character. Home is not only the structure of one’s house, but the place one longs for, like the magic, glowing moon, to feel safety, love and warmth. Magical, visual, stimulating, and oftentimes funny, Olive & Pearl is a supportive performance first for the very young.
