Actors bring history to life at Scout Island during the Wonder Wander City Park event.
From April 4 to April 13, Scout Island in New Orleans will host an immersive theatrical event titled ‘Wonder Wander City Park.’ Attendees will experience history through interactive storytelling featuring characters from the past. This unique production is part of the We Will Dream: New Works Festival and encourages participants to engage with their heritage in a scenic outdoor setting.
New Orleans is gearing up for a unique event that fuses theater with history in an immersive way that you won’t want to miss! It’s taking place at Scout Island within City Park, a site steeped in intriguing stories and rich heritage.
If you didn’t know, Scout Island has an interesting backstory. The name comes from the days when adventurous Boy Scout troops were given the rare chance to camp overnight in the park. The park itself is situated along beautiful bayous and connected by the well-trafficked Harrison Avenue, making it an accessible, outdoor hotspot for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
From April 4 to April 13, it will transform into a living history exhibit through the theatrical production titled “Wonder Wander City Park.” This event is part of the vibrant We Will Dream: New Works Festival, and has been carefully crafted by co-directors Lisa Moraschi Shattuck and Lauren Turner Hines.
During this one-of-a-kind show, attendees will have the chance to dive deep into stories from our past, meeting characters that reflect the lives of those who once walked the same grounds. These characters will share their stories, allowing participants to interact directly with history. It’s like stepping into a time machine filled with endangered stories that deserve to be heard.
The adventure begins at the entrance to Scout Island, located at 40 Magnolia Drive, where audience members gather for an unforgettable experience. Participants will wear headphones to enjoy an immersive audio experience, enhancing the narrative brought to life through skilled actors. The beauty of the show is that it offers a level of interactivity; as you walk through the island, you’ll have a hand in how the story unfolds.
The performance promises to be a feast for the senses, showcasing elements of music, dueling, and dancing that will keep you thoroughly entertained while you learn. One of the main characters is Fannie, an enslaved woman from the late 1700s, alongside her daughter Maria, who faces an uncertain future with the possibility of being sold under the strict Code Noir laws.
The narrative delves into themes of freedom and generational struggles, exploring Fannie’s quest for liberty against a backdrop of complex legal challenges. The stories are inspired by real-life events and testimonies from New Orleans history, addressing issues like the restrictions of the Jim Crow era and the long history of exclusion from public spaces.
The cast, featuring talents like April Louise, Owen Ever, and several others, adds another layer of depth to the performance, making history feel alive and relevant.
The creative idea of an outdoor theatrical journey rose during the pandemic when social distancing became essential. While previous versions of “Wonder Wander” took futuristic approaches, this one roots itself in the rich historical narratives of Scout Island.
As the festival unfolds, look forward to additional events, including an HBCU theater summit and features in the International Black Theatre Summit in Ghana, further showcasing the importance of engaging with our historic spaces. Hines emphasizes how uncovering these rich cultural histories can be a powerful tool for community engagement and education.
“Wonder Wander City Park” will run with performances daily at 11 a.m., 2 p.m., and 5 p.m. on April 4, and on April 5-6 and 11-13 at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 5 p.m.
Tickets are available for purchase online at wonderwandercitypark.mystrikingly.com. Make sure you secure your spot for this captivating journey through New Orleans history in the breathtaking surroundings of City Park’s Scout Island.
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