Chicago Puppet Fest presents:
Based on a true story, Yael Rasooly bring her virtuosic vocals and puppetry to share the struggle of a singer nearly silenced at the hands of political leaders, immobilized, and perhaps never to perform again. Yet she is not alone – the famous singer icon Edith Piaf is there to drag her out of bed and pull her back into life. “Edith and Me” is a one woman show doubling the power of French cabaret.
Dates/Times:
Thursday, January 23 at 7:30 pm*
Friday, January 24 at 7:30 pm*
Saturday, January 25 at 8 pm*
*Each show will be followed by a short break after which the artist(s) will be present for a talkback.
Location: The Biograph’s Začek McVay Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln Ave.
Cost: $43/$35 students & seniors
Ages: 15 and up
Running Time: 60 mins
ADA Accessible? Yes
Yael Rasooly, an acclaimed puppeteer from Israel, creates intimate and poetic performances that blend puppetry with visual storytelling. Her work is known for exploring personal and historical narratives, drawing audiences into detailed, emotionally rich worlds. At this year’s festival, Edith and Me tells a story of memory and identity, inviting audiences on a deeply personal journey. Furthermore, in The House by the Lake, Yael Rasooly continues her exploration of memory and mystery through her signature intricate puppetry style. Known for crafting unique, detail-rich settings, Rasooly’s work pulls audiences into a world where the past surfaces through layered storytelling. These festival performances offer a suspenseful and nostalgic experience that resonates with audiences on multiple levels.www.yael-rasooly.com
The Richard Christiansen Theater, housed within the historic Biograph Theater, is a cherished part of Chicago’s vibrant theater landscape. It was originally built in 1914 as a movie house, specifically for showing motion pictures. This venue provides an intimate yet comfortable environment for both audience and performers, making it the perfect backdrop for the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival. Also housed in the Biograph, the Začek McVay Theater honors the legacy of Dennis Začekand Marcelle McVay, two pivotal figures in Chicago theater. Dennis Začek served as the artistic director of Victory Gardens Theater for over 30 years, and under his leadership, the theater became a nationally recognized hub for new and diverse works. Together, these theaters create a rich environment for artistic exploration, making them perfect venues for the festival’s most engaging and cutting-edge puppet performances. Festival-goers will have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in up-close and personal experiences of the most innovative puppet shows.
