This is probably the most traditionally-written adaptation on my list, following the magical Collodi story very closely as it wends its way through the ups and downs experienced by Gepetto, the lonely old toymaker, whose dream is to have a son, and the wooden puppet he creates who proves--after a long journey of trial and discovery--to be the answer to Gepetto's prayers.All the memorable characters are here, including the rowdy and obnoxious Fire Eater, the Blue (initially Green) Fairy, and the notorious Killer Whale who, in the story and in this adaptation, is known more correctly as the Great Monstrous Dogfish. And the storyteller is Gepetto's stalwart pooch, Alidoro, whose "work" consists of lying in front of Gepetto's shop doing everything BUT protecting the place. Of course, there is plenty of humor along the way, and plenty of entertainment for not only the kids but also for the adults in the audience. It's a very suspenseful story, with action, adventure, songs and dances. It's also a challenge for theatre companies who will find fun ways to make noses grow and turn little boys into donkeys right in front of the audience members' eyes!
The Cast: Alidoro, the Merchant, Gepetto, Angelina, Fire Eater, Blue Fairy, Giuseppe, Pinocchio, Vendors 1 and 2, Gorgio
DOUBLING IS POSSIBLE
The Setting:
Around and about a tiny village in Italy in the 19th century. The set is flexible, and accommodates a number of different, easily identified areas, including the inside of the Great Monstrous Dogfish.