We are deeply honoured to receive an Ontario Arts Council Theatre projects grant to support the early creation of a new, original, spectacular work of puppet theatre, Bear’s Garden!

Bear’s Garden tells the tale of a clever Peasant who plants his fields in the Bear’s woods. Twice he tricks the Bear to reap harvest. The contending takes place in kitchens, where the Peasant is visited by Divine messengers, strange guests and enchanted animals who travel from wild places above and below to help dream up an old story.

Drawing inspiration from Slovak illustrator Viera Bombova’s prints and paintings, Bear’s Garden will layer colourful paintings and handmade puppets with original and arranged song, music and foley soundscape. Early creation of the music took place as part of YGK Airwaves project at CFRC Queen’s Radio in Kingston this spring.

Bear’s Garden company is Aleksandra Bragoszewska, Alison Gowan and Ekaterina. We are very grateful to the generous support of the Ontario Arts Council, and to our project sponsors, Maitland Tower, CFRC Queen’s Radio and Rideau Lakes Public Library.

Bear’s Garden: A New PuPpet show