The Traveler

Turns out, while it was indeed “interesting,” it was also immensely joyous, wonderfully heartwarming, and humorous in the most beautiful way.

The best surprise is saved for last, and apparently it’s effect is so powerful that (at least in my performance and the one before it) children from the audience come instinctively to the traveler’s aid. As a long-time theatre-goer familiar with the art of making something look spontaneous when it’s not, I assumed this was a plant. I was wrong. There was simply something so moving in Bowers’ performance that a young child felt drawn to actively participate in his story. If that’s not the only thing better than a standing ovation, I don’t know what is.

Created by Bill Bowers and Andrew Frank for New York City Children’s Theater, the 45-minute play captures the experience of immigrants and refugees who must leave everything familiar to strike out on their own.

Imaginative one-man show with active miming. We traveled around the world with him to laugh and to learn empathy for others. A lovely piece for all ages!

Wonderful; I especially love how my daughter learned how much can be “said” by a single actor with no dialogue and limited props. It’s great to be exposing kids to as many different forms of theater as possible. Very much enjoyed meeting Mr. Bowers after the show.