The Extraordinary Journey of Edward the Rabbit

The play “The Extraordinary Journey of Edward the Rabbit” is based on the popular children’s novel by American author Kate DiCamillo, “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane.” In the play, you will meet Edward Tulane, a beautiful porcelain toy rabbit dearly loved by his owner, a girl named Abilene. But Edward does not know how to love. Although Abilene shows Edward great respect and love, he thinks only of himself and is constantly admiring his splendid appearance. Then, one fateful day, he falls overboard into the sea. After spending 297 days on the ocean floor, Edward is washed ashore, where passing fishermen pull him from their fishing net. Thus begins the porcelain rabbit’s great journey toward love. During his long wanderings, Edward changes the lives of the characters he meets, and in turn learns how to love and long for others. His journey takes him not only far from home, but also far from who he once was. What does it mean to love? To feel compassion? To yearn for someone? When we open our hearts to others, we often become not only happy, but vulnerable too. Along with joy, we let in anxiety, concern, longing, and sometimes even pain. But everyone who has ever loved knows that we feel most alive when our hearts beat with love. This wonderful tale of the conceited Edward teaches us that a loving heart may sometimes break, but all our feelings help us grow, while indifference turns us into cold porcelain dolls. The moving story of Edward the rabbit’s journey is told through striking costumes and scenery evoking the early 20th century, elements of puppet theatre, and live songs and dances. This play will enchant the hearts of children and adults alike and remind us once again: “if you do not intend to love or be loved, then the whole journey is meaningless.” Premiere: December 26, 2024, and January 5, 2025. © 2006 Kate DiCamillo. Original edition published by Candlewick Press. Used with permission from Pippin Properties, Inc. In the press: Funded by: