A Unique Setting.
One unique twist in this production was its setting: Iceland. Incorporating Icelandic culture and landscape into the visual and thematic elements of the show added a layer of creative challenge and excitement. This choice influenced costume designs, staging, and even the performers’ interpretations of their characters. The stark beauty of Iceland provided a fresh backdrop to the classic tale of *The Ugly Duckling*, infusing the story with a sense of wonder and uniqueness.
Iceland, with its distinct ecology and culture, stands apart from other countries in the world. Its remoteness has allowed it to develop a one-of-a-kind character, much like the Ugly Duckling, who transforms into a beautiful swan after embracing its differences. This parallel made Iceland the perfect setting for reimagining the story, as its unique qualities mirror the themes of growth, individuality, and self-discovery.
To deepen our knowledge of Iceland, students attended a presentation by Geir Olafsson, an Iceland native, musician, and CNG parent. They learned about Mr. Olafsson’s experience as a professional artist and gained insights into Icelandic culture. We also watched a documentary about the Icelandic ecosystem, which further informed our creative decisions. The crew took inspiration from Iceland's dynamic landscapes, while performers observed animal movements and interactions to incorporate into their roles.
Using this beautiful country as our setting was a tremendous source of inspiration across many aspects of the show. For example, the crew constructed large rock formations to mimic Iceland’s iconic geology. Characters were also influenced by this setting: since there are no amphibians or reptiles in Iceland, the frog character became a tourist, representing Iceland’s thriving tourism industry. Iceland’s uniqueness shaped not only the visuals of the production but also the heart of the story itself, emphasizing the beauty that lies in being different.