Peter and the Wolf

Peter and the Wolf

MUSIC/FILM: UK

“The joy of this film is the care, sensitivity and imagination that matches even Prokofiev’s work.” The Independent

An Oscar-winning film of Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf is set to enchant a new generation of children. Suzie Templeton’s beautifully made animated film will play on a giant screen, with the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Hamish McKeich, performing the much-loved score.

Since its premiere at the Royal Albert Hall in 2006, this film screening accompanied by a live orchestra has been in demand worldwide. The Sunday Times praised its “thrillingly beautiful’’ animation, which features intricately made puppets and lavish, atmospheric sets capturing the spirit of Prokofiev’s 1936 score.

“The real challenge for us as film-makers has been to do something that rises to the drama of Prokofiev’s music,” co-producer Alan Dewhurst, of Breakthru Films, told The Independent, “to make an engaging visual drama that plays successfully with the music and doesn’t merely illustrate it.’’

The Russian composer was commissioned to write a light-hearted piece of music to introduce children to the instruments of the orchestra. He also wrote the libretto, about a boy who ventures into a forbidden meadow with his animal friends – and captures a wolf. Prokofiev’s tale, with each character represented by an instrument, became a classic.

Templeton’s contemporary retelling of the story won an Oscar in 2008 for best animated film. Prokofiev’s story has charmed more than five generations of children, and this new version is set to delight a whole new audience.

The event will conclude in gorgeous style with an orchestral performance of New Zealand composer Jenny McLeod’s The Emperor and the Nightingale, inspired by the Hans Christian Andersen fairytale and narrated by Helen Medlyn. Hamish McKeich will conduct the performance.

The New Zealand Post Season of Peter and the Wolf is at the Michael Fowler Centre on 9 March as part of the 2012 New Zealand International Arts Festival, Wellington, 24 February – 18 March. Tickets $10 - $43 available from TICKETEK.

AGE RECOMMENDATION: 5+

ENDSImage: Richard Haughton

Sponsored by New Zealand Post

For Kids is supported by Wellington Community Trust

Film copyright 2006 BreakThru Peter Ltd and Se-ma-for

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