This fall, families are invited to step into a world of wonder and imagination at the Aurora Public Library District. Firefly Family Theatre will return to present The Harvest Moon Puppet Show at the Santori Library, 101 S River Street, Aurora, at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 27. With puppets, music, and interactive storytelling, the show offers a joyful way for families to celebrate the season together (flannels and pumpkins optional)!
For many young children, the Harvest Moon Puppet Show may be their very first theatre experience. “There’s something magical about watching young audiences interact with puppets and music, and I can’t wait to share that spark of joy with families in our community,” said early literacy specialist, Gretchen. The performance is designed to be sensory-friendly, gentle, and highly interactive. It’s perfect for children ages two to seven, discovering the wonder of live theatre for the first time.
At the heart of this production is Spark the Firefly and her friends, who welcome the arrival of autumn in Firefly Grove. From colorful falling leaves to a silly squirrel gathering acorns, children are immersed in the sights and sounds of the season. The glow of the harvest moon creates the perfect backdrop for learning about nature. For children and their caregivers, it’s a chance to pause and celebrate the wonder of fall together.
More than just entertainment, the Harvest Moon Puppet Show also supports early learning. “Firefly Family Theatre’s mission aligns beautifully with the library’s goal of nurturing learning and creativity from a young age,” adds Gretchen. Through story, song, and movement, children practice important skills such as following a story’s beginning, middle, and end, building vocabulary, and playing with the sounds of language. Along the way, they also develop empathy, creativity, and social-emotional awareness. “Caregivers can extend the fun at home by reading fall-themed picture books together or talking with their child about what Spark the Firefly and her friends experienced in the story,” Gretchen suggested. When the library and caregivers work hand in hand, children receive the richest opportunities to grow as learners.
Families won’t want to miss this special celebration of the season. The Harvest Moon Puppet Show will be held at Santori Library Saturday, Sept. 27. Tickets are free and available at the children’s desk starting 30 minutes before the program. It’s the perfect way to welcome autumn’s crisp air, enjoy live theatre, and share a memorable morning with your little ones. For more details, visit www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/event/13922260 or call 630-264-4117.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.