The Magic City

Philomena and her big sister Helen love building miniature cities out of books, toys, and household objects. When Helen begins seeing a new boyfriend, Brandon, Philomena's world falls apart. Even worse, she's expected to make friends with Brandon's son, Lucas: the most annoying boy in the world. Forced to share her perfect life with Helen, Philomena retreats into building the biggest tiny city ever: a magic city only for her. Then, one night, Philomena's city of found objects comes to life, and she finds herself trapped inside. Will Philomena find her way out—and will she let her new family in? Brought to life through Manual Cinema's magical fusion of actors, puppets, miniatures, and live music, The Magic City encourages us to build bridges rather than walls.

Adapted from Edith Nesbit’s 1910 novel “The Magic City”.

Recommended for ages 6+.

theater, music

“Manual Cinema’s ‘Magic City’ lets everyone in”

– Chris Jones, The Chicago Tribune

“…one would have to lack a pulse to not be transported back to a state of childhood wonderment…”

– Patrick McDonald, The Advertiser, March 2017

“…a brilliant way of awakening interest in theatre, puppetry, and storytelling for the next generation. “

– Barry Lenny, Broadway World, March 2017

1/3

Lead commissioning support for Manual Cinema’s The Magic City provided by the Chicago Children’s Theatre. The Magic City premiered at the Chicago Children’s Theater in January, 2017.