THE ARABIAN BIRD
INTRODUCTION
The folktale “The Arabian Bird” that we perform originates from Norway. Typical for the Norwegian folktales is the direct language, suitable for describing actions and exact images. The content of this performance is very actual and easily recognized by all people – young and old.
The story has an educative value in the widest sense through mirroring life itself without ever becoming moralistic.
The most important qualities that are stimulated through the show are:
- a strong will, to carry out own initiatives,
- clearness of thought, to be able to see through the situation,
- decisiveness, to make the right choice at the right moment,
- interest in the fellow human being, to understand and help,
- wisdom, to be able to give advice to others.
CONTENT
The story contains one core theme and three storylines.
The main theme is the difference between reality and illusion.
- First storyline: the King is ill and there is no remedy that can cure him, except the song of the Arabian Bird. Illness and death are transformed into new life.
- Second storyline: the youngest Prince makes a quest that turns him into a man on his way. This is not happening without obstacles, but when he finally comes home again he is a knight that is able to help people in need. The sometimes lone path of individual development finds its final achievement into compassion.
- Third storyline: the Prince from the North marries the Princess of Arabia. Their marriage forms a mutual understanding and love between two (fictive) countries and cultures.
SHORT RESUMÉ
The old King is ill and can only be healed by the song of the Arabian Bird. To help their father the three sons depart, one by one, for Arabia. The two oldest get stuck in a rich city full of feast and pleasures, but the youngest remain faithful to his tasks.
In a magical forest he meets a hermit, who gives him advice. The Prince later finds Arabia and the Arabian Bird - and also a beautiful Princess! But before the bird can sing and cure his ill father, a lot more will happen...
SPECIFICATIONS
- In English language, if not agreed differently.
- Performance lasts a small hour, without breaks.
- Suitable for all ages: children, youngsters, adults and elderly (see References).
- The text of the story is worked out in a theatre version, and is told by a storyteller.
- Accompanied by live music in two versions: piano solo, or trio (piano, cello, flutes). The music is especially composed and arranged for the performance.
- The performing group consists of 10/12 artists and technicians.
- About 50 costumes and a special stage lightning complete the strong visual effect of the performance.