Raven Theatre presents Patchwork U.S.A!, written and directed by Producing Artistic Director Michael Menendian. Patchwork U.S.A.! is a collection of three short stories; "How I Love to Read", "Pepito's Story" and "The Happiest Day of My Life". This world premiere show for children will run for four consecutive Saturdays this fall on the East Stage in the Raven Theatre Complex.
Follow Mary Lou, Pepito and Vasken as they discover their strengths and build their dreams in the great melting pot of America. In "How I Love to Read", Mary Lou, an elderly black woman, shares her life story and her search for education. Her quest not only takes her to new places but also connects her to ancestors on Southern plantations through her favorite Black folklore fairy tale.
Pepito is a young Mexican-American boy who explores his love of music and dance in "Pepito's Story". Being different is difficult in Pepito's small Texan town on the Gulf of Mexico. His best friend, Estrellita, offers him true friendship but when her father becomes Mayor, he forces them apart for fear of seeming undignified. Will their friendship survive?
Vasken, a young Armenian boy, learns the joys of a new world in "The Happiest Day of My Life". When Vasken's family moves to America, he discovers the joys of being a young boy in a new world, especially a love for baseball. His excitement reaches new heights in anticipation of going to his very first baseball game. .
The cast of PATCHWORK U.S.A.! includes Krystel V. McNeil, Allison Sanchez, and Esteban Andres Cruz. Costumes and props are designed by Joelle Beranek.
PATCHWORK U.S.A.! is also available for in-house bookings throughout the year for birthday parties, schools and other community organizations. For booking information, call the Raven Theatre at 773-338-2177.