Synopsis

Puppet Show

Recommended age 4+

The play was created based on the audio drama I wrote, and it was developed within the framework of the Hungarian Academy of Arts Scholarship Program..

The characteristic motifs and characters of the Rumcájsz tales appear woven into their own story arc, alongside forest creatures who are also products of my imagination. It was an important decision for me that not Rumcájsz, but Cipísek would be at the center of the story, and I retell the original adventures through his perspective. I was curious to explore how a small child discovers the world, its wonders, and at the same time encounters injustice and experiences it. I was interested in the child’s sense of justice as a force that brings order to the world—this became the foundation of my concept. Cipísek goes to the Rőf Shop to get a new shirt from the Yolk Fairy, but the greedy shopkeeper cheats him. Rumcájsz doesn’t allow his little boy to be called a liar, so they return together to the Rőf Measurer. Along the way, they get into various adventures, as Rumcájsz is being pursued by the imperial army. We meet Piszmogi, the barber, Puffogi, the blindfolded hunter, the foolish Prince, Judge Fisztula who steals the rainbow, and for a short time, we even return to Rumcájsz’s old cobbler workshop.
I really love the pacifist perspective and nature-connectedness of the Rumcájsz tales, and the way they highlight the strength of family, giving Manka a prominent role in that bond. These are values that the Rumcájsz stories present in a very appealing way to children, and I emphasized them through Cipísek’s perspective, giving the story a more contemporary tone.