The artistic project supported by the National Commission for Scientific and Technological Research (CONICYT) and inspired by the successful children’s TV series “The Scientific Recipe of Tony Tonina” finished its performances for the school year 2017 on November 15.
Los Andes School in San Pedro de la Paz was honored by a new presentation of the show, at which more than 100 pre- and primary school children along with their teachers enjoyed the adventures of Tony Tonina and his friends.
The show opens at the popular sea restaurant “Marine Flavors”, where a nervous Don Gritardo, the restaurant’s owner, has two important pieces of news to give to his loyal team: Tony, Lala and Estelita. That is the beginning of the story, intended to raise awareness and inform the public about the impact that human actions have on the ocean and its inhabitants, for example, through the production of waste, mainly plastic. The two actors in charge of working the puppets are George Soto and Gonzalo Ramírez, who share the same opinion on the show: “This is a science-based play with a very important social message aimed at children. Change begins with them; we need to talk to them about this subject, so that we can make a change in the long term. Taking care of the planet and not contaminating the ocean are some of this show’s main lessons.”
Barbara Léniz, IMO’s Outreach deputy director and coordinator of this project, highlights the importance of these kinds of activities for children. “Children are fascinated by the magic of puppet shows and the mystery behind the puppet theater. That alone creates an emotional attachment that grows as the story advances and as they feel closer to the characters. In this way, the message behind the play reaches them in a more significant manner.”
The play will continue to travel around the Biobío Region next year, motivating and inspiring more children to take part in the task of protecting the ocean.
Those interested in organizing a performance can contact IMO through social media or email at difusion@imo-chile.cl.
