Juried Showcase | Axis Theatre
Wednesday, September 9, 2026 4:30 PM to 4:45 PM · 15 min. (US/Pacific)
Exhibit Hall East
Juried Showcase & Pitch Session
Youth & Family Circle
Information
Long
With the experience of multiple showcases of Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch, a condensed version of the work shares the heartwarming story without revealing every secret moment, leaving room for surprise when presenters book the full production. The work is an adaptation of Eileen Spinelli's award-winning book exploring how one person's lonely existence transforms through unexpected kindness – and how that kindness ripples outward to build community.
While children connect with Mr. Hatch’s journey, adults often find tears in their eyes when the character's expectations don't unfold as hoped. Audiences will experience masterful Bunraku-style puppetry, with multiple puppeteers bringing a three-foot puppet to life with nuanced emotion and movement that audiences consistently describe as “alive”, and creating a distinctive magical realism. Live music, physical theatre, and clowning integrated seamlessly with puppetry, showcasing the innovative performance style that has defined Axis Theatre for 50 years and made this production a signature touring work across North America.
Contact
Tara Bailey, Bailiwick Booking Agency: bailiwick.biz@gmail.com
With the experience of multiple showcases of Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch, a condensed version of the work shares the heartwarming story without revealing every secret moment, leaving room for surprise when presenters book the full production. The work is an adaptation of Eileen Spinelli's award-winning book exploring how one person's lonely existence transforms through unexpected kindness – and how that kindness ripples outward to build community.
While children connect with Mr. Hatch’s journey, adults often find tears in their eyes when the character's expectations don't unfold as hoped. Audiences will experience masterful Bunraku-style puppetry, with multiple puppeteers bringing a three-foot puppet to life with nuanced emotion and movement that audiences consistently describe as “alive”, and creating a distinctive magical realism. Live music, physical theatre, and clowning integrated seamlessly with puppetry, showcasing the innovative performance style that has defined Axis Theatre for 50 years and made this production a signature touring work across North America.
Contact
Tara Bailey, Bailiwick Booking Agency: bailiwick.biz@gmail.com