Kamishibai

Picture and storytelling theater

Kamishibai – literally translated as "paper theater" (kami = paper, shibai = theater) – originally comes from Japan. This picture theater or "storytelling theater" has a long tradition there and represents a special form of storytelling.

It consists of illustrated picture cards depicting the individual scenes of a story. The cards are presented in a stage-like frame. As the story unfolds, one picture after another is shown. Each standing image can be calmly viewed on its own. Meanwhile, a person tells the story. The focus is on the visual core of the spoken words. The storyteller stands beside the frame and speaks directly to the audience. The picture cards encourage interaction, and the audience becomes actively involved in the story.

Telling stories with Kamishibai holds great value for children’s development. The illustrated stories stimulate creativity and imagination and contribute to building an extensive vocabulary. While TV and cinema present children with fast sequences of images, “theater without electricity” gives them enough time to really look closely and engage in the story.

Kamishibai is used to creatively promote language and reading skills in daycares, kindergartens, or schools. It helps with holistic learning, picture-supported storytelling, developing imagination and personality, structuring and visualizing content, and it enhances concentration and communication skills.

Kamishibai "Pippilothek???" by Lorenz Pauli

The fox chases the mouse, through the basement window, around the corner, through a narrow passage. And then suddenly, the two are standing among many shelves and even more books.

For children ages 4 and up. Registration required.

Time: 3:30 PM

Cost: Free admission

Location: Zentralbücherei Prüm

Info phone: 06551-965812

Email: buecherei@pruem.de