The Museum of Chinese in America is pleased to continue collaborating with artists Spica Wobbe and Margaret Yuen to present a new iteration of their ongoing project, which transforms personal stories into intimate puppet performances. Prologue Part III traces the interwoven journeys of five first-generation Chinese immigrant men who arrived in New York City between 1962 and 1990. Against the backdrop of the Cultural Revolution, the rise of overseas study, and the shadow of Tiananmen Square protests, each man sought a new beginning—whether for safety, education, opportunity, or simply to reunite with family.

Through the distinctive visual language of shadow and object theater these deeply personal stories unfold on stage. The result is a moving tapestry of courage, determination, and resilience, honoring those who forged new lives and opened doors for future generations.

The program will be preceded by a drop-in MOCACREATE workshop for families and performance attendees from 2 - 3 PM. Everyone has a story! … and guess what, everyone has a shadow, too! The art of shadow puppetry uses special puppets that cast intricate shadows to tell stories from history and legend. Shadow puppets can tell stories from today, too! What’s your story? Attendees will have a chance to make a shadow puppet of their own with teaching artist Yu Rong.

This program includes a drop-in shadow puppetry workshop, a performance, and a Q&A session. The workshop is open to the public and welcomes participants of all ages.

CREATIVE TEAM

Co-developed by Spica Wobbe, Margaret Yen, Abby Man Yee Chan
Co-directed by Spica Wobbe, Margaret Yuen
Designed by Spica Wobbe
Performed by Spica Wobbe, Abby Man Yee Chan

Special Thanks to Kit Koi Chu, Wei Rong Chu, Wai Tim Ho, Shue Kai Leung and Qi Feng Zeng for sharing their stories. To John Wobbe & James Yang for their voiceover contributions.

SCHEDULE

2:00pm - 3:00pm: Drop-In Shadow Puppetry Workshop with Teaching Artist Yu Rong*
3:15pm - 4:15pm: Performance
4:15pm - 4:30pm: Q&A

*Space is limited.

“Prologue PART III” is made possible in part with funds from Creative Engagement, a grant program supported by the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council and administered by LMCC.

MOCA PERFORMS - Prologue Part III & MOCACREATE