Based on the children stories of Ruth Stiles Gannett, Enchantment Theatre Company brings “My Father’s Dragon” to life on stage in celebration of the book’s 70th anniversary.
When nine-year old Elmer Elevator hears about a baby dragon who is held captive by the ferocious animals of Wild Island, he sets off on an adventure to rescue the dragon and return him home. With the help of his friend the Alley Cat, Elmer packs everything he thinks he’ll need – including chewing gum, two-dozen lollipops, seven hair ribbons and a box of rubber bands! With pluck and ingenuity Elmer makes his way to the Island, outwits the wild animals and saves Boris, the dragon. But can they find their way back home? As they travel over the ocean they get lost in a storm and discover a magical island of escaped canaries. The resourceful Elmer helps the canaries overcome their “curiosity disease” and uncover a stash of hidden riches. With bags of gold and the canaries’ blessings, the dauntless duo at last returns home.
With talking animals, a daring rescue, a flying dragon, buried treasure and lots of humor throughout, this adventure is brought to the stage in Enchantment Theatre’s distinctive style. Using puppets, masks, inventive scenic effects and original music, Enchantment Theatre Company tells the story of a compassionate and courageous young boy and his unlikely friendship with a splendid yellow and blue striped dragon.
When the book was published in 1948, The New York Herald Tribune called it, “A true work of art.” and later named it the best children’s book of the year.
MY FATHER’S DRAGON — HONORS and INCLUSIONS
- Newbery Honor Book and an ALA Notable Book
- 100 Best Children’s Books of all Time
- NY Public Library 100 Great Children’s Book List
- NEA Teachers’ list of top 100 books for children
