A Dragon, a Princess, a Hero and an army of rats run wild in an exciting adventure perfect for ages 6 - 9.

Chen Yang must leave his life in a poor fishing village and set sail across Dongting Lake with General Wong’s army. When the general captures a water dragon, Chen Yang saves the dragon’s life and helps it escape. Moments later, a fierce storm whips out of nowhere and destroys the general’s ship.

Chen Yang is washed ashore on a mysterious island. During his time here he falls in love with an enchanting princess, discovers the astonishing true identity of the wounded dragon, and becomes a hero whilst discovering the secret of Dongting Lake.

Presented with the highest of production values, this is theatre for young audiences as it should be: un-patronising, exciting, and guaranteed to get them coming back for more.

“A spectacular experience… Celebrated local children’s theatre director Ben Crowder carries an energetic young all-Asian cast through a flamboyant adventure of wonder and surprise…Playwright Michelanne Forster weaves together a supernatural yarn concerning Chen Yang (Min Kim), a poor village peasant made good. On the way he encounters fearsome armies, Dragon spirits, a beautiful princess and a plethora of hilarious characters to impress and delight the largely waist-height audience… entertaining characters, splendid acrobatic displays and a smattering of martial arts produce a satisfying, accomplished, exotic holiday treat for the family.”
- NIK SMYTHE, THEATREVIEW

Video

Creative team

Director
Ben Crowder
Playwright
Michelanne Forster
Set designer
Simon Coleman
Lighting designer
Philip Dexter
Sound designer
Andrew McMillan
Producer
Phil Evans
Jumpboard Productions

Production Information

Practicalities

• 2 day pack in/ open on second day
• Performed in traverse; would work well in a large studio or black box theatre
• Touring party of 11

Full technical specification available on request.

Originally commissioned by Time Out Theatre for children at THE EDGE with funding from Creative NZ