Circle Theatre invites the Gering and Scottsbluff community to a full day of creativity and cultural exploration with Momotaro at Legacy of the Plains Museum, a hands-on workshop celebrating Japanese arts, folklore, and performance. This engaging event, inspired by the beloved Japanese folktale of Momotaro and led by artists of all abilities, will run from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 8, and is free to the public.

The daylong series of workshops will immerse participants in traditional and contemporary Japanese art forms. Visitors can fold origami characters, learn Odori (traditional Japanese dance), craft Bunraku-style puppets and Noh theatre masks, sing folk songs such as Teru Bozu and Oni no Pantsu, and conclude with haiku poetry and reflection. The day will culminate in a short performance demonstration of Momotaro: The Peach Boy of Japan by members of Circle Theatre’s ensemble.

“This workshop is about connecting culture, creativity, and community,” says Circle Theatre Co-Artistic Director Courtney Stein Cairncross. “It’s a chance for families to explore Japanese art traditions while discovering the joy of storytelling through movement, music, and puppetry.”

Circle Theatre’s Momotaro programming is part of a year-long celebration of global folklore and inclusive performance.  All activities are designed to be accessible for participants of all ages and abilities.