In Japan it is said that if you fold a thousand paper cranes your wish will come true.  

From West to East from East to West, A Thousand Cranes aims to create visual, vibrant, physical theatre inspired by stories from Japan and Europe which celebrate and unite the two differing cultures and is committed to work that promotes intercultural dialogue and exchange.

A Thousand Cranes is a new theatre company founded in 2006 by performer Kumiko Mendl and director Vicky Ireland MBE.

Now available for booking.

For more information on A Thousand Cranes contact kumiko@athousandcranes.org.uk

TALES FROM OLD JAPAN

“Mountains are just like people – they have secrets, mysteries and stories to tell”

Come and hear enchanting, bewitching and hair-raising stories of magnificent Mount Iwate who blew hot and cold, the humble woodcutter and his beautiful but strange bride and the snorting, burping Ogre of Rashomon Gate.

These delightful traditional Japanese tales are brought to life through inventive storytelling, puppetry and music.

For ages 5+ and their families.

Tales from Old Japan was originally created with the support of artsdepot as part of Asobi! 2006.

Based on the Japanese legend of Tanabata, this beautiful tale of friendship set amongst the stars is retold using traditional Kamishibai (Japanese paper theatre).

Blending words, pictures, and imagination this is a unique and charming theatrical experience for ages 3 years + their families.

Developed in association with artsdepot and with support from Japan 21

Join Kumiko, make some origami and hear the tales of Princess Moon, the Ogres of Belching Hill and the Hidden Treasures.

3 Japanese stories on one mountain told with paper, imagination and fun.

Suitable for ages 3- 8

Contact Kumiko@athousandcranes.org.uk for more information.

Sample of some of the excellent feedback we have been receiving for Tales from Old Japan...

"What a fantastic show!..the show appealed to all ages. The children were spell-bound - we have had loads of wonderful comments from all classes!..Teachers, nursery nurses and teaching assistants felt they had been given an enormous treat. The place is buzzing with ideas to extend the storytelling and role play opportunities in classrooms..I am sure the show will be well received wherever you take it".
Headteacher, Brunswick Park
Primary & Nursery School, North London

"thank you for a beautiful show. As a Japanese, I appreciate that you showed some beautiful Japanese old tales to us (specially to my son who is Anglo-Japanese). My tears came out during your show."
K Prentice, W. Sussex

"it was a pleasure to see theatre return to its roots of storytelling. Simple, effective and engaging. Thank you."
Rachel N.London

"absolutely beautiful - fantastic quality of materials/props and performance - a truly chameleon - like physicality in expressing different characters and moods"
M Worledge, S.W London

"I thought it was great"
Olivia, 6 yrs

Artistic Associates at

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