Based on the Book By Jen Wojtowicz
Written & Directed by Mara McEwin
Choreographed by Emily Bunning
Costumes & Puppets By Patti Gilstrap
Lighting & Set By Cody Grey
Composition By Martyn Axe
*Created in Collaboration with the Performers
Number of Performers: 5
Running Time: 45 Minutes
Treehouse Shakers’ The Boy Who Grew Flowers is a stunning visual performance suitable for Ages 4-10. Adapted from the picture book by Mara McEwin and choreographed by Emily Bunning, it is the story of a young boy, Rink Bowagon, who lives on top of Lonesome Mountain with his unusual family of rattlesnake tamers and shape-shifters. The townspeople agree that Rink’s family are quite strange, but they are unaware of Rink’s spectacular gifts. Whenever the moon is full, Rink sprouts beautiful flowers all over his body. When a new girl, Angelina, moves to town, Rink’s life truly begins to grow. Incorporating shadow puppetry, original music, and movement into the play, The Boy Who Grew Flowers is a thoughtful story that lends itself to themes of diversity, creating empathy & celebrating individualism.
WHAT THE PRESS IS SAYING
“It was a thrill to see one of my favorite Barefoot books brought to life on stage in such an authentic, imaginative way. I am excited that the story’s message – will reach many more children through Treehouse Shakers’ wonderful work.”
– Nancy Traversy, Co-founder & CEO, Barefoot Books
“A wonderful story that teaches about accepting differences-and even celebrating them.”
-Library Media Connection
“My students loved The Boy Who Grew Flowers, many of whom are ESL. Because the show was so beautifully visual, they were able to understand all of it! Thank you for this wonderful experience at the theater.”-Melendy Forman, 1st Grade Teacher, P.S. 206
“Great show, my daughter absolutely loved it!”-NYC Parent of 3rd Grader