An old couple in ancient Japan long for a child. They have their wish granted when a huge peach floats down the river and breaks open to reveal a baby boy. They name him Momotaro, and he grows up to be the strongest young man in all of Japan. But Momotaro's village has a tiny problem... GIANT OGRES! Ogres have been bullying the villagers for years, and Momotaro decides he must make a stand. With the help of friends - the dog Inu, the monkey Saru, and the bird Kiki - Momotaro meets his foes face-to-face. Performed in the style of popular anime cartoons with traditional Japanese influences, this action-packed staging of Japan's most famous folktale teaches powerful lessons about inner strength and how creativity, kindness, and cooperation win out over brute force. Best for ages 5-10.
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To address a shortage of inclusive arts programming for families of children with disabilities in the Washington area, Imagination Stage is offering a new season of sensory friendly performances designed to be more accessible to individuals with sensory sensitivities or autism spectrum disorders. For some children, select theatrical elements can lead to over-stimulation and anxiety, and many children communicate differently or have behaviors (such as vocalizations or constant movement) that might be viewed as "disruptive" in a formal theatre setting. Sensory friendly performances provide an environment that is safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental through: reduced volume, especially for loud or startling sounds; partial house lights so patrons can see if they need to move around the theatre; intentionally unsold seats to provide extra room for children who need to move or exit their row; relaxed policy regarding use of tablets and smart phones if serving as communication devices for a child; designated break spaces for those who might need a moment to self-regulate; and preparatory materials for parents and children so they know what to expect at the theatre, including advance social stories outlining aspects of going to, attending, and leaving each performance.
