Superheroes can awaken a desire in children to learn about kindness, respect and compassion.
Sarah Argue, owner and puppeteer with Rock the Arts, uses superhero puppets she creates to teach children that it’s what is beneath the mask and cowl that really makes a person super.
This year Argue is performing at three Nanaimo elementary schools with her co-puppeteer Holly Greene, presenting the Superhero Showdown. The showdown has three main characters: Com, Pas and Sion. Their names represent one of the main themes of the show: compassion.
“We really build characters for kids to fall in love with,” said Argue. “Even after we leave the show, they talk about the puppets they love.”
The superhero puppets explore what really makes a puppet, or a person, super with stories about compassion, kindness and perseverance.
Argue was inspired by her godson to create Superhero Showdown. She felt the newer movie versions of Superman and Batman were too violent and wanted to make something more kid-friendly.
“After the show, we talk about the characters and what they have taught them,” said Argue.
Each puppet is handmade by Argue and takes about 12 to 15 hours to complete.
Argue comes to Nanaimo with her show today (Oct. 29) at Brechin Elementary School. The performances are open to the school children only.
reporter2@nanaimobulletin.com