The Luna Park Elephant A Shadow Theatre Performance by Diane Matyas

The Luna Park Elephant blends history and fantasy to reimagine the story of Alice, an Asian elephant brought to Coney Island in 1904 to entertain crowds. Her purported “escape” swim across New York Harbor to Staten Island was newsworthy but also symbolized resistance and longing.

Using light, drawing, and found objects, this performance contrasts early twentieth century New York artifice with the splendor of the natural world, and marks Artist Diane Matyas’ first shadow theatre work, continuing her exploration of the intersection of art and storytelling.

Following the performance the audience is invited to take a self-guided flashlight tour of the Historic Maritime Museum.

This performance and imagery are made possible by a DCLA Art Fund Grant from Staten Island Arts, with public funding from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs. Past funding for this project has been provided by the Center at West Park w/The Hensen Foundation, & The Howard Gilman Foundation