The Night Kitchen Radio Theater, Vol. 1: The Emperor's New Clothes and Pinocchio

This article originally appeared in SLJ’s Extra Helping. Sign up now!

Lisa Hubler, Cuyahoga County Public Library, OH -- School Library Journal, 4/13/2007

The Night Kitchen Radio Theater, Vol. 1: The Emperor’s New Clothes and Pinocchio. 2 cassettes or 2 CDs. 2:22 hrs. Prod. by Listening Library. Dist. by Listening Library/Books on Tape. 2006. cassette, ISBN 0-7393-3826-9: $23; CD, ISBN 0-7393-3798-X: $24.

K-Gr 3–These contemporary adaptations of classic children's tales were recorded live at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, to be aired nationwide on XM Satellite Radio as well as on Nickelodeon's Nick.com. This not-for-profit theater company, founded and directed by Arthur Yorinks, offers lively performances by a full cast that hark back to old time radio shows. Stellar acting allows listeners to visualize the characters' antics as they unfold. In Hans Christian Andersen's "The Emperor's New Clothes," the government tries to decide how to put a positive "spin" on the current state of affairs.A new "birthday suit" for the emperor tailored by twin tricksters Charlie and Candy should fit the bill, resulting in the expected conclusion as a young boy exposes the truth. Carlo Collodi's "Pinocchio" chronicles the adventures of the little wooden puppet as Gepetto tells the story of how he became a real boy. Each performance includes a "Listen Up!" with well-known critic and author Leonard Marcus that provides background information for each play. This audio feast will tantalize both children and adults.

« Back | Print