The show“October Fiesta” is an interactive children's theatre show inspired by Mexican Day of the Dead with reimaged traditional stories and games about life, death, rebirth in the animal kingdom, and Mexican folklore. "October Fiesta" includes two wonderful pieces which can be combined: "Stories of the Wind" and "The Sounds of the Sun".
"October Fiesta" is a celebration of art, culture, and the power of storytelling. Audiences will be enthralled by the rich folklore and the interconnectedness of all living beings, all set against a backdrop of Mexican landscapes, traditions, and the universal theme of kindness. This production is a must-see for all ages and backgrounds, inviting everyone to embark on a journey of magic, imagination, and the enduring power of stories. "Stories of the Wind" is an experience that will leave a lasting impression on your heart and soul. The storyOWL is on a mission to find COYOTE in this heartwarming adventure that takes place in the mystical land of Mictlán. Together, they embark on a quest to help the departed souls reunite with their loved ones.
Audiences will be transported to the vibrant world of Mexico, filled with rich traditions, artistry, and incredible stories. The production features different stories from traditional Mexican tales: Alebrijes, created by the renowned artist Pedro Linares, Monarch Butterflies with their incredible migration story, and a beautiful fable of the Feathered Snake, Quetzalcoatl, and a selfless Rabbit, culminating in a celestial symbol on the moon, and more. Partners
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Trailer: Ula Moroz
Photography: Emma Fay Event Type: Interactive Children’s Theatre / Performance
Duration: Storytelling Session 10 minutes or 30-40 mins Games Session - 30-40 mins Language: English and Spanish available Audience Capacity: 30-50 max. per session Age Suitability: Suitable for families and all ages (ideally from ages 5+) "October Fiesta 2023" is an original concept created by Outdoor Places Unusual Spaces (OPUS) and commissioned by Twycross Zoo, with original stories and games by Itzatna Arts and Isabel Quiroz. Made possible thanks to public funding from the National Lottery through Arts Council England.
"The Sounds of the Sun" written and directed by Ruth Mestel. Commissioned by The Core Solihull for Small is Beautiful 2024.
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History and development
We first made an R&D scratch of ‘October Fiesta’ in 2022 at Twycross Zoo to test ideas, games, stories, and audience feedback. All partners agreed it was a great success, and Twycross Zoo asked us back this autumn 2023 to develop the piece. ITZATNA applied and was granted Arts Council England funding in order to develop and tour the production out of the zoo around small local venues in the West Midlands, London, and Leeds.
We are now looking to partner with new venues or organisations to bring our piece to more audiences this 2026 and 2027. If you are interested in bringing either "Stories of the Wind" or "The Sounds of the Sun" to a venue, you can contact us at contact [at] itzatna.org.
We are now looking to partner with new venues or organisations to bring our piece to more audiences this 2026 and 2027. If you are interested in bringing either "Stories of the Wind" or "The Sounds of the Sun" to a venue, you can contact us at contact [at] itzatna.org.
