By Alix Cohen
“CO＿LAB Theater Group is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing Creative Opportunities without Limits And Boundaries. The organization offers individuals with developmental disabilities a creative and social outlet through theater arts striving to be
everybody’s stage comfort, welcome, and trust.”
The log cabin interior looks like a stuffed toy, as if it were made of foam or confection = benign. Buffalo check curtains, a rocking chair and a “crackling fire” set the scene. A mouse scurries across the floor propelled on a long rod. Spot the dog (marvelous) is also controlled by a focused puppeteer.
“I swear I put that thingy somewhere. I swear it was right here,” says an old man in a stylized, full face mask. “Come sit by the fire (to us), I was just about to look at this (a photo album).” A lilting waltz begins. “I’ve lived in this cabin my whole life…with the ghost.” Oh to have seen the actor’s face, but perhaps he would’ve been uncomfortable
The man’s parents bought the house when he was a child. Eventually they acknowledged and accepted its (musical) ghost. Objects dance on the shelves- a teddy bear, a clock, a baseball glove, flowers…The tales begin:
“I was a pearl diver for many years…” Silhouettes conjure. Framed by the window, we watch the diver explore a ship wreck as schools of fish pass. There are sounds of bubbles and ostensibly, fish. Just when he finds a treasure chest, a tentacled monster appears. Instead of fleeing, the character rides it: “Yee haw! Giddy-up!” We hear a ship’s bell. The storyteller offers a thumbs-up.
The fireplace revolves to emit a red dragon a la Chinese New Year. It’s born aloft by four puppeteers who are clearly having a wonderful time, looking out, broadly grinning. Some seem to recognize audience.
Offering a doggie treat doesn’t ameliorate the beast.”Maybe he’s powerful, but my stories are powerful too,” Then to the dragon, “Write your own stories!” the old man shouts. Abashed creature retreats to his liar. Tea boils. The fire crackles.
“Won’t you tell me a story or two?” (to us)
CO＿LAB has been working with developmentally disabled people since 2011 creating dozens of theater works that give each person an opportunity to participate and shine. “We honor and celebrate each individual for who they are. We value everyone’s unique contribution to our ensemble at large.”
The result is not only admirable, but well crafted and touching.
The Fabulist: Tales From the Hearth
CO_LAB’s Puppetry Production
Act III Puppetry ensemble and directed by Emily Batsford and Kristian Sorensen
wild project 195 East 3rd Street
CO_LAB: https://www.colabtheatergroup.com/shows-events/the-fabulist
COMING UP:
MAY 9-12 , 2026 CO_LAB’s Spring Showcase
May 11, 2026, Another Round, CO_LAB’s Spring Benfit
