African Folktales with Erik de Waal
FOUR STARS | De Waal stalks the stage as prey and predators in this low-tech, engaging puppet show

Rating: ★★★★
(Reviewed at the 2015 Winnipeg Fringe Festival)
Company: Kalabash Kidz, Edmonton
Genre: Storytelling
Venue: 30 — Kids Venue (MTYP Mainstage)
Erik de Waal has become a reliable Fringe mainstay with his delightful renditions of traditional folktales.
Using simply a few well-designed hand puppets, a mask and a couple of pieces of cloth, de Waal is able to entertain his young audiences thoroughly.
The carefully measured cadence of his voice helps draw kids in, but it's his playful back and forth with them — and his genuine respect for them as an audience — that keeps them engaged for his 45-minute show.
The two tales might burn a bit slowly for very fidgety Fringers, but for toddlers and elementary school-aged kids, de Waal is a reliable bet.

Comments
To encourage thoughtful and respectful conversations, first and last names will appear with each submission to CBC/Radio-Canada's online communities (except in children and youth-oriented communities). Pseudonyms will no longer be permitted.
By submitting a comment, you accept that CBC has the right to reproduce and publish that comment in whole or in part, in any manner CBC chooses. Please note that CBC does not endorse the opinions expressed in comments. Comments on this story are moderated according to our Submission Guidelines. Comments are welcome while open. We reserve the right to close comments at any time.
Become a CBC Member
Join the conversation Create account
Already have an account?