Next Play Reading: Gingerbread Children by Michael Slade

Left Behind (c) 2008 by Tina M. Harris

The next play in our "New Innovations" series will be Gingerbread Children by veteran playwright, Michael Slade. Two of Slade's plays, And a Child Shall Lead and Garden Politics were recently produced here in Central Oregon, and we are excited to have this opportunity to present another example of this fine writer's work.

Gingerbread Children is a dark and disturbing play that weaves together four seemingly unrelated stories to explore multi-generational child abuse, and the ways in which society, through religion and folk tale tacitly condones it. As Sarah, an ancient woman, prays incessantly to various saints, we enter her mind to meet and follow a minister, his wife and daughter (the old woman’s younger self); two young brothers seeking a safe haven from their alcoholic father; Hansel and Gretel; and Lot and his daughters.

In the coming months we plan to suggest things -- reading materials, music, artwork, etcetera -- which we hope will deepen your appreciation and enjoyment of the works we present. Below you will find our first such list. As always, we welcome your questions, comments and suggestions!

Further Explorations ...

• The story of Hansel and Gretel can be found here.
  
• The story of Lot and his Daughters can be found in the Book of Genesis.
  
• Article: "Children's Books: Child Abuse and Happy Endings" by Jack Zipes The New York Times, 22 January 2009.

Innovation Theatre Works is a new not-for-profit theatre organization seeking to establish a world-class professional theatre in Central Oregon. It is a joint creation of theatre veterans Brad Hills and Chris Rennolds. Through a series of random events, happy accidents and a shared vision, they found each other and Central Oregon and are bringing their collective talent and experience to bear in the founding of ITW. Together they represent over 60 years of theatrical production experience in venues across the country.

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