If you’re looking for a meaningful and heartfelt all-ages show to see with your family this February, don’t miss Gateway Theatre’s production of Otosan. With a special showing on Family Day (February 17th), audiences can also catch this powerful story about family, connection, and culture running from February 19-22.
In Japanese, the word “Otosan” means Father and this beautiful production highlights the complex relationship between a young Shizu and her father after she unknowingly stows away in his suitcase during a dangerous trip. When Shizu’s father opens his suitcase in The North, he is bewildered and frustrated to find his daughter hiding out. Forced to make the best of a difficult situation, Shizu and her father learn to work together to overcome challenges and face adversaries such as snowy owls, white wolves, and grizzly bears in the most remote locations. With each success, Otosan and Shizu find ways to communicate and express their love for one another to bridge the generational gap
This memorable production is a dynamic and immersive show that audiences of all ages will love. Otosan combines puppetry, real wildlife projections, and an original score to draw audiences in. Inspired by co-creator Shizuka Kai’s experience as a child with her father, a wildlife videographer, moments and anecdotes from her childhood inform the writing of this heartwarming script.
Otosan is perfectly suited for all ages and is guaranteed to engage and enthrall both young and old audience members with incredible music, creative puppetry, and vibrant backdrops. Otosan was created with the support of Deaf Consultants Caroline Hébert and Ladan Sahraei to ensure the inclusion of people who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. To further enhance accessibility, American Sign Language interpretation of the pre-show speech will be available at all performances. Gateway Theatre offers an American Sign Language Interpretation on February 22 at 10am, and a Relaxed Showing on February 22 at 1pm where audience members can move around as needed, make noise as necessary, speak with performers before the show, and spend time in a “chill out zone” located in the lobby. American Sign Language interpretation will also be provided at the talkback on Saturday, February 22 at 10:00 AM. Relaxed performances are adjusted to reduce sensory intensity to allow for a more accessible space.
Gather your family for a theatre experience that will warm your heart and spark meaningful conversations. Tickets to Otosan are available here for purchase. Secure yours today before they sell out!
Gateway Theatre Presents: Otosan
Dates: February 17, 19-22, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM (Feb. 17, 19, 20, 21 & 22); 1:00 PM (Feb. 19, 20, 21, & 22)
Venue: Gateway Theatre
Address: 6500 Gilbert Road, Richmond
Website: www.gatewaytheatre.com
