Firetale Theatre
Closing Reception, Kansas City Public Library – Central Library, October 2nd, 5:30 PM
Bio: Shadow puppetry is a very accessible folk theater art form that incorporates handmade puppetry, found objects, and the human body to tell original fables relevant to our life and times. Firetale Theatre’s co-producers Mikal Shapiro and Ritu Nanos would engage the public in being a part of an improvisational performance that highlights inclusivity and self-expression in the context of an “Animal Dance” where each participant gets a chance to strut their stuff as a character-in-silhouette to a group of fantastical puppet onlookers and the public. Open to all ages and abilities. No experience required.
In connection to the theme: Wonder is a natural expression in the art of shadow puppetry. Because it is such a simple and accessible medium, it invites participants to engage their imaginations and delight in the transformation of ordinary and humble materials into fantastical forms and characters. There is also something disarming in participating behind a sheet that helps facilitate collaboration and play between strangers — fostering a kind of creative common ground that is both surprising, charming and impactful. Sites of spontaneous creative collaboration can help build our collective imagination — one that includes us all as participants in the shared story of community.
Artist Interview
By: Lilly Gerend
Firetale Theatre’s “Animal Carnival” is an interactive shadow puppet installation inspired by Camille Saint-Saën’s classical piece “Le Carnaval des Animaux” (The Carnival of Animals). Puppeteers Mikal Shapiro and Ritu Nanos invite audience participants to transform into creatures using ready-made animal parts. Participants will then be invited to partake in the performance by strutting their stuff in silhouette with a host of other fantastical beasts. This activity is open to all ages and experience is not required!
Mikal and Firetale theatre were inspired to participate in Art in the Loops season this year through the 2025 theme, “Wonder.” “Shadow play is intrinsically full of wonder and discovery,” Mikal says, “Through guided improvisation using basic shapes and everyday objects, we hope to reignite the imagination toward what is possible in the world.” In this performance Mikal and Ritu have developed a creative space where one can enjoy and explore the simple magic of light and silhouette.
This simple magic transcends age and is what sparked Mikal’s love for art as a child and since, they have come full circle to truly appreciate it becoming a filmmaker in their adult life. “I’ve been enamored with shadow theater ever since I was a child. In my pursuit to become a filmmaker, I rediscovered this early passion and incorporated it into my art practice. After all, shadow puppetry is the original silver screen! ” they say. “Over the years, the medium has also helped me stay connected to my childlike sense of wonder,” and not only for Mikal and Firetale theatre, but it continues to be an accessible tool for creativity to shine through and collaboration to be explored transcending differences and backgrounds.
Accessibility is something that was specifically mentioned by Mikal while responding to these questions and expressing the gratitude of being a part of the Kansas City art community and Art in the Loop. “It’s extra special when we can take our art to the streets together! Making art accessible to more people enriches lives and deepens connections. We are so grateful to our vibrant KC art community and our Art in the Loop family. Thanks for getting us out of our boxes and into the loop!” they say.
Thank you so much to Mikal, Ritu, and Firetale Theatre for your participation in the Art in the Loop’s 2025 season and we encourage you to attend our closing reception on October 2nd, at 5:30 in the Kansas City Public Library- Central Library to take part in this wonderful performance.
