Ama and the White Crane

Set in 17th-century Japan, this easy-to-tour, Kabuki-style adventure celebrates strong family values and the development of relationships. In an imaginative and expert blend of mime, movement, music and comedy, the adventures of Ama and her hand puppet companion, White Crane, unfold as they journey to the Legendary Center of the Universe. A pair of bombastic but good-hearted samurai befriend Ama as she seeks to save her village from a powerful demon, whose disguises create suspense and humor. The demon is inevitably overcome by the ingenuity of young Ama. In a highly stylized, visually stunning moment, White Crane's "wings" appear (two huge white paper fans carried onstage by prop persons in black) and the trip is "flown" to the top of the mountain, safe from danger and closer to enlightenment. A brilliant range of highly playable characters and detailed suggestions for easy construction of costumes and special effects ensure successful production. Suitable for all-female or all-male cast.