French speaking, shadow play and slavery

Lapin, elephant, cheval and tigre compete to win the affection of Mademoiselle Christelle in a new French play for 7- to 11-year-olds.

What is it?

Theatre Sans Frontieres brings the story of Les Aventures de Lapin to UK schools. The story explores folk tales from the French-speaking Caribbean. The rabbit, who is the underdog, represents the black slave who battles against the other, more powerful characters, symbolising white colonialists. The show introduces pupils to French vocabulary for colours, fruits and animals in a musical performance with live action, puppetry and shadow play. Pupils will hear French language in context, while learning about issues of slavery. It is topical subject matter for Black History Month in October.

When is it?

The play will tour from 24 September to 16 November. For more information or to book, visit www.tsf.org.uk

What else?

A CD-ROM resource pack - including a synopsis in French and English, music and lyrics, vocabulary and learning activities - is available for teachers who book to see a performance.