Inspired by a true-life story, Carousel Theatre for Young People (CTYP), Vancouver International Children’s Festival, and Zee Zee Theatre present the world premiere of Vancouver playwright Dave Deveau’s The Papa Penguin Play.
Inspired by the true story of two male penguins who were gifted an egg at New York’s Central Park Zoo and Deveau’s own parenting experience, The Papa Penguin Play follows a pair of penguin fathers and their zookeeper friend as they navigate the chaos of throwing a first birthday party.
“Since my husband and I became fathers six years ago, we’ve searched for stories that represent and celebrate queer families, and the adorable children’s book, And Tango Makes Three, about Central Park Zoo’s unconventional penguin family has been an inspiration,” says Deveau, who also serves as co-artistic and managing director of CTYP. “I wanted to create a work that added to this legacy in recognition of the many different ways a family can look, while also being an exuberant celebration of one of life’s most exciting milestones: a baby’s first birthday.”
In this edition of Before The Curtain Goes Up, David C Jones speaks with playwright Dave Deveau to learn more.
The Papa Penguin Play premieres at the Waterfront Theatre (1412 Cartwright St, Granville Island, Vancouver), with public performances May 17-26. Visit carouseltheatre.ca for tickets and information.