***** 4 1/2 Stars Winnipeg Free Press
Adapted from a Wabinaki tale written by Joseph Bruchac, Four Wishes is the story of four Abenaki men who yearn for more. The traditional teaching tale is unfolded with an elegant and eye-catching collection of puppets, masks, props and an engaging narrative. The entire production is performed by buckskin-clad Michael Gunst, who slips naturally from one character to another. One man is greedy for many worldly possessions, the second for stature so he can be taller than anyone, the third seeks immortality, while the last wishes to be a better hunter so he can provide for his people. They journey by canoe to visit Gluskabe, a great creator who will grant such wishes. But what happens if they open their medicine pouches to soon?
This graceful, well-crafted production out of Boulder Colo., is well-deserving of a broad audience.
-- Wendy Burke Winnipeg Free Press
| CBC Radio**** 4 Stars
Colorado performer Michael Gunst puts on a visually impressive show filled with well-crafted and awell-loved traditional puppets and masks in this 60-minute retelling of the Abenaki tale written by Native American children's author Joseph Bruchac.
Four men embark on a long journey by canoe (depicted through shadow puppetry) to visit Gluskabe, the Great Spirit's helper. Upon their arrival, the men are each granted a wish. Their wishes, mostly self-serving, are safely stowed in tiny pelt pouches that the elder puts around the travelers' necks for safekeeping. The pouches are said to contain their "heart's desire" and while the eager men are carefully warned to wait until they reach home before opening them, only the selfless hunter, and hero of this tale, is able to fulfill his promise.
Educational and fun, this easy to follow fable reinforces the old adage 'good things come to those who wait.' Only one brief note here for parents. This is not the interactive theatre experience generally expexted of puppet theatre at Kids Fringe. Gunst's show is deep and meaningful and is geared towards audience members who are at least five years old.
--- Demetra Hajidiacos CBC Radio
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Four Wishes is a smart well-acted show...
Jonathan Ball --Uptown Magazine
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