The newest work in progress by Drama of Works

(with help from Hans Christian Andersen, Rachel Carson, Tom Cade, T.S. Eliot, and others)

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​​In this piece we confront the theme that humans are both the antagonists and heroes in our own story. The use of the pesticide DDT had a devastating effect on many birds, the Falcon and songbirds included. The poison altered birds’ calcium metabolism resulting in egg shells too thin to support the weight of incubating chicks. The recovery of the Peregrine Falcon from the brink of extinction remains to this day one of the most successful conservation efforts in history. We strive to create a magical and hopeful piece, tying this devastating time in nature conservation with the Arthurian legend of The Fisher King and the fairytale The Nightingale. We will use only materials found on the park, beach, forest floor or those recycled and re-used.

 

The Fisher King is rendered impotent and tasked with guarding the Holy Grail. The Falcon is made barren by the use of DDT, and the songbirds are silenced. The Emperor chooses the man-made “perfect” bird over the untamable beauty of a real nightingale, and is left to die alone. The fool visits the Fisher King and gives him water from the Holy cup. He is cured. The people miss the songbirds' music and the Falcon’s absence is felt in the ecosystem. They rally to ban DDT. The Nightingale values the Emperor’s love and swoops in to save him. The Emperor recognizes his faults and his people rejoice.

 

We hope this piece inspires similar insight - to be better humans…

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DIRECTOR / TEXT COLLAGER: Gretchen Van Lente

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LEAD PUPPET DESIGNER: Taylor Harrison

       

MUSIC DIRECTOR: Amy Carrigan

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DRAMATURG: Meghan Williams​