Student Matinees

ShadowLight Productions invites teachers and students to attend our main-stage production matinee performances, open rehearsals and community events - sharing the power of Shadow Theater to schools across the country. Following every performance is a Q&A session with the creators, artists, and performers.  

Over the last three decades, our school program has introduced the art form to numerous students around the SF Bay Area and beyond. Our one-of-a-kind aesthetic has proven to be an effective teaching tool and is sure to intrigue and entertain all ages. Don’t miss the rare opportunity to see a modern shadow play performed live on stage!

Current & Past Matinee Performances

FEATHERS OF FIRE, a breathtaking cinemascope-size shadow play based on an episode from the 10th century classic Persian epic, Shahnameh (“The Book of Kings”). An opportunity for all to experience the action-packed magical tale of love and triumph, this family-friendly show is sure to entertain children and adults alike with its enchanting characters and visually stunning imagery. 

December 15, 2015 – Open Rehearsal for Teachers & Arts Coordinators
January 15 & 19, 2016 – Fort Mason Center, San Francisco, CA  


PORO ONYA: The Myth of the Aynu, a new multidisciplinary shadow theater work bringing the culture and history of Japan's indigenous Aynu people to light in a performance combining puppetry, folktales and song. Heroes, monsters and a magnificent sun goddess come to life in this enthralling new theatrical work. Performed in Japanese and Aynu with English narration. Recommended for ages 8 and up.

Poro Oyna School Study Guide

January 10-11, 2014 - Hopkins Center for the Arts, Hanover, NH
January 16, 2014 – Fort Mason Center, San Francisco, CA 


GHOSTS OF THE RIVER, a new multidisciplinary shadow theatre work by some of the Bay Area’s leading artists, Larry Reed (shadow master), Octavio Solis (playwright), Favianna Rodriguez (art director), and Cascada de Flores (music). This team of creators uses shadows, masked actors, puppet silhouettes and live music to bring the stories, culture and social issues surrounding U.S. immigration and the border to light.

Curriculum Study Guide for Middle & High School Grade Level - http://www.shadowlightghosts.org/curriculum-guide.html

September 18, 2009 – Open Rehearsal for Teachers & Arts Coordinators
October 29 & November 4, 2009 – BRAVA Theater Center, San Francisco, CA