ZEN SHORTS

Director ︎ Sean Cawelti
Adapted by ︎ Rogue Artists Ensemble
Music and Songs ︎ Adrien Prevost, John Nobori, Thu Tran, Sarah Peters and Noelle Hoffman
Scenic Design ︎ Pete Hickock, Sean Cawelti
Sound Design ︎ Steve Swift
Lighting Design ︎ Joey Guthman
Costume Design ︎ Zane Philstrom
Puppet Design ︎ Greg Ballora, Sean Cawelti, Kristin Charney, Christine Papalexis, Jack Pullman
Prop Design - Glenn Michael Backer


World Premiere
Rogue Artists Ensemble | Pasadena Playhouse


Based on the Caldecott-winning book, Zen Shorts follows three siblings as they navigate the pressures of school, friendship, and the struggles of growing up. But everything changes once a Zen master panda named Stillwater moves into their neighborhood and shares three simple Zen tales that illuminate their world. Using Hyper-theatrical puppet performances, magical video projections, and original songs, Zen Shorts is an adventure filled with imagination, love, and panda philosophy. Produced by special arrangement with Scholastic Books.

"Be warned, the organization is not responsible for any sudden outbursts of good will, drowsy or coma-like behavior, unplanned smiles and quiet laughter, or acts of blatant generosity after experiencing this presentation…And the performers are absolutely amazing! The puppets are wonderful, as are the calming music and songs and visual enhancements."
-Dennis Sparks, All Things Performing Arts





"I really enjoyed how Stillwater invited the crowd to give their own answers to the concept of zen. There were opportunities for the crowd at times to interact with the puppets during the production, which was great for keeping the kids interested and not afraid to speak out and express their joy…I also thought the use of humor in Zen Shorts was perfect; simple enough for our six-year-old, yet clever enough to keep the adults chuckling as well. Thanks to the wise teachings of Stillwater through his telling of stories, the idea of achieving peace and enlightenment can be understood by ages three to three hundred. Zen Shorts is an amazing show for kids of all ages."
-PDX Kids Calendar

Mark