We arrived in Omaha yesterday morning for a play that would celebrate friendship with a red balloon. Being big fans of the movie “Up,” we were intrigued to see a balloon featured in a play. Really the concept was a brilliant one – especially for little people!
Today begins the official 2 week run of the play “Balloonacy” at the Rose Theater in Downtown Omaha. Who knew the shag rugs would turn into magic carpets as kids have the opportunity to sit on them for the show rather than having to sit still in theater seats? Who also knew that the simple stage would soon be full of imagination?
A gentleman seems to be having an ordinary day when suddenly a balloon appears through the window. He tries to send the balloon away but “somehow” the balloon keeps coming back. Transforming the man from withdrawn to happy, the balloon does turn into the other main character of the show.
My “action” shots were a bit blurry, but you kind of get the idea. This is unlike any play that I have seen. Audience participation was encouraged rather than halted. The cute little preschoolers added to the experience (although at times they might have been a bit distracting). The main character had hardly any dialogue, but a storyteller came out frequently to discuss what was happening.
My oldest son makes his photographic appearance on this blog with these shots above. He was so proud when he captured the balloon hiding behind the stage. 🙂
Promoting friendship, they illustrated the fact that by learning to take a risk to play with the balloon, the lonely man would want to make the effort to make real friends as well. Explaining how to handle feelings and apologies were also a part of the demonstrated lessons. While the play is definitely for younger folk, even I walked away with the beneficial reminder that friendship matters!
A big thank you to the Rose Theater for providing the tickets and also for being so flexible on the timing with us! While all of my kids liked the show, my youngest two really enjoyed the play and would gladly intend again. As my middle son is almost 9, I think he recognized that the play was intended for littler kids. The Rose Theater has done a great job with setting the ages correctly. At $10 a ticket, this show has a lower price for an introductory experience of theater. Plus at only 45 minutes, your kids should even make it through the whole performance without needing a break!
Wasn’t it great?! Liv talked about the balloon birthday show for weeks. Adorable! The Rose is one of our favorite places.
My youngest two loved it !