![]() ![]() He studied animation at the California Institute of the Arts and would later work with the Sesame Workshop and Pixar Animation Studios before becoming an illustrator of books for children. Drawing became a way to make space for himself and to create the kind of world he wanted to see. He was born in Los Angeles and grew up in a small one-bedroom apartment with his brother, two cousins, aunt and grandmother. ![]() He teaches creative writing and visits schools and colleges throughout the country.Ĭhristian Robinson (Illustrator) is an illustrator, author, animator and designer based in Oakland, California. de la Peña currently lives in Southern California. In 2019 Matt was given an honorary doctorate from UOP. Matt received his MFA in creative writing from San Diego State University and his BA from the University of the Pacific where he attended school on a full basketball scholarship. In 2016 he was awarded the NCTE Intellectual Freedom Award. Matt de la Peña (Author) is the New York Times bestselling, Newbery Medal-winning author of seven young adult novels (including Mexican WhiteBoy, We Were Here and Superman: Dawnbreaker) and six picture books (including Milo Imagines the World and Last Stop on Market Street). I love his relationship with his Nana and how she gently imparts her wisdom to young CJ.” Throughout this story CJ begins to see the beauty all around him – and in so doing reveals it to us as well. He paints a vibrant picture of the world around him. It is important we bring the audience into CJ’s reality and slowly transport them into the magical world.”Īdded First Stage Artistic Director Jeff Frank, “Author Matt de la Peña has quickly become one of the best and most popular writers for young people – and it makes sense. The world of the play starts us off in reality and then evolves into rainbow magic through the vehicle of CJ’s imagination. Through this production my intent is to honor the wonder of young people’s imagination and bring to life the words of the playwright with delight, wonder and curiosity. As CJ becomes curious he embarks on a magical self-discovery through the act of kindness. They ride the bus from the East side to the West side of the city. “LAST STOP ON MARKET STREET takes place on a summer present day as CJ and his grandmother go on their Sunday routine as they inhabit a variety of environments. “Sometimes when you are surrounded by dirt CJ, you’re a better witness for what’s beautiful.” This story takes place in an imperfect world as CJ marvels at his grandmother’s ability to find beauty in an imperfect world. Our words and actions have consequences, and young people look to us to learn how “to really see” the world around them. How do we teach our young people to live in a more kind and understanding world? How do we continue engaging their imagination as they have been conditioned to screens? How do we empower their curiosity in an imperfect world? The answer lies in the individual and how we decide to show up in the world. Children are having to readapt as they engage with one another, while others have been robbed from learning those fundamental social skills that instill kindness. Tickets are available online at or through the First Stage Box Office at (414) 267-2961.ĭirector Johamy Morales had these thoughts to share about the play: “The gift of kindness comes with a triple rainbow magic!” Our young people have experienced a very difficult year of isolation and have been quickly exposed to socialization in a world full of uncertainty. THE LAST STOP ON MARKET STREET runs May 7 – Jat the newly-renovated Goodman Mainstage Hall at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, located at 325 W. Suggested for families with young people ages 3 – 7+. Performance run time is approximately 55 minutes, with no intermission. Their trip through the bustling city becomes an exciting magical adventure which helps CJ solve a mysterious riddle and make unexpected special friends as he discovers a wonderful new way to see the world! Sponsored by PNC. Most of all he wishes they didn’t have to journey to the scary last stop on Market Street. Along the way, CJ wonders why they don’t own a car, or headphones or an iPad like his friends. CJ and his Nana set out in the rain on their weekly bus ride across town. Directed by Johamy Morales, this production is part of First Stage’s First Steps Series which introduces younger audiences to live theater. The final First Stage production of the 2021/22 season will be THE LAST STOP ON MARKET STREET, a play adapted by Gloria Bond Clunie from the Newbery Medal-winning children’s book by Matt de la Peña, with Illustrations by Christian Robinson. ![]()
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