ISBN: 9781887276474 • $ 14-95
Publishing date: October 18th, 2024
ABOUT THE BOOK
Far away in a magical world where Cats can talk and study dreams, one very cool Cat named Puccini is about to have an amazing adventure! The Princess of these amazing Dream-Cats is his very best friend, but what happens when Puccini realizes he loves the Princess and wants to marry her? The King is very strict, and the rules of their land are already written. What will Puccini and his Princess do in a world that will not allow them to be together?
A story of friendship, forbidden love, courage, and whimsy, “Origin of Puccini the Cat” is a confection of intricate silhouettes and handmade paper-cuts that takes the reader on a visual and poetical journey to a fantastical galaxy full of possibility. Based on the shadow puppetry plays of Midnight Radio Show, this book is the first in a series of science fiction fairytales adapted from the stage to the page. Featuring the artwork and writing of “bona fide fairy princess” Charlotte Lily Gaspard, “Origin of Puccini the Cat” explores the wondrous range of expression found in shapes, shadows and silhouettes.
Find out more at: midnightradioshow.org
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
“Part celestial creature, part sophisticated human” is how Charlotte Lily Gaspard has been described by Faerie Magazine when contemplating the ethereal artist and her work in one of their features. Shadow puppet artist, educator and children’s entertainer, Charlotte’s mission is to activate imaginations and celebrate playfulness wherever she goes. Charlotte is the founder and artistic director of Midnight Radio Show, a shadow puppet sci-fi fairytale theater company based in Brooklyn, NYC. She designs puppets for theater, film, and music videos, including award-winning indie film “Verses at Work” and theatrical adaptation “A Snowy Day & Other Stories by Ezra Jack Keats.” Mommy Poppins declares, “The incredible shadow puppets will amaze the audience.” Along with puppets and performance, Charlotte also creates costumes for theatre & film projects. She holds credits for her costume & wardrobe work from the Public Theater, Shakespeare in the Park, Signature Theater, Roundabout Theater, and many others.
Charlotte is the resident production designer at Child’s Play NY, a children’s theater company. She also facilitates puppetry & theatre arts workshops all over NYC and beyond.
