Peter and the wolf banner

Spirited choreography, larger-than-life masks and a modern setting illuminate a symphonic classic like never before.

In a fresh take on a well-loved classic, Peter is a dreamer who suddenly finds himself in the middle of an adventure: a mystifying mission to capture a wily wolf. Two dancers and an actor, colourful sets and incredible masks make for a modern and humorous re-telling of this enduring story. An ideal production for a student or family concert series, Peter and the Wolf brings listeners in on the action as they help catch the mangy marauder once and for all!

Platypus Theatre’s production of Peter and the Wolf was originally created in collaboration with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, and premiered in 2014 to squeals of delight and shouts of encouragement from young audiences at Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto. Brilliantly choreographed, the performers deftly portray a myriad of characters in this touring show featuring music in the role of character and storyteller. Platypus Theatre’s original production of one of Prokofiev’s most revered works lasts approximately 50 minutes and is suitable for ages 5 and up.

Peter and the Wolf was a commission of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and the Montreal Symphony Orchestra. 

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Story Themes

  • Standing up to bullies
  • Overcoming fears
  • Individuality
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Musical Themes

  • Instruments of the orchestra
  • Musical character
  • Music as a storyteller
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Fun Facts

  • Instead of hunters, we feature police officers!
  • The first Platypus show performed only by dancers. 
  • Played to seven sold out houses in its first week.

Instrumentation

2(1.2Picc)2(1.2EH)22/3210/T+2/str.

*The number of string players is at the discretion of the orchestra. Number of books supplied is 87665. All music is supplied by Platypus Theatre in the form of bound books for each musician. A score with all text cues is also supplied as well as a rehearsal CD for the use of the conductor.

Repertoire

Prokofiev:  Symphony No. 1 (4th movement) 

Schumann: "Traumerei" from Kinderszenen

Grieg: “In the Hall of the Mountain King” from Peer Gynt Suite No. 1 

Beethoven: Prometheus Overture 

Rimsky-Korsakov: Flight of the Bumblebee

Prokofiev: Peter and the Wolf

Tech Specs

This performance requires the services of three artists from Platypus Theatre: three performers, one who is also stage manager.

Lighting can be varied to suit facility.

Presenter must supply three flesh-coloured, inconspicuous microphones (Sennheiser MKE 2 Gold or similar) that can be hooked over the ear or attached to the face.

For full technical requirements, click on downloads for the rider.

Peter and the Wolf as a School Concert

Peter and the Wolf is also available as a woodwind quintet .

Each Platypus Theatre program is tailored to suit both the primary (kindergarten to third grade) and junior divisions (fourth to seventh grade). Our in-depth and relevant study guides were developed by teachers, with separate activities by grade level and curriculum that meet or exceed most state and provincial standards for arts education. 

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Cross Curricular Connections

  • Drama (storytelling, body language characterization)
  • Dance (expression through movement)
  • Visual Art (masks)
  • Social Studies (relationships, cause and  consequence)
  • Science (animal behaviour, natural environment)
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Character Education

  • Justice
  • Kindness and caring
  • Courage