Ark Adventures

Ark Adventures is presented exclusively at Congregation Beth Shalom in Northbrook, Illinois

Immersive Theatrical Shabbat Adventures designed for 0 to 4 year olds and their grownups

Kids and their grownups climb aboard the ark for a Shabbat adventure filled with sensory storytelling, music, puppetry, and lots of imagination. Join artist and educator Jonathan Shmidt Chapman and friends for this unique experience designed especially for very young children and their families.

Ark Adventures is a multi-sensory Shabbat experience for children and families. Inspired by the techniques of the Theater for the Very Young (TVY) movement, Ark Adventures utilizes live music, puppetry, sensory play, and theatrical design to bring Shabbat to life as an immersive, participatory adventure. Children are given animal ears and “board the ark” welcomed by a crew of artist-educators.

Through story and song, participants are guided to help finish building the ark, create a storm, set sail on the water, and celebrate Shabbat together. When the rain stops, a dove is sent out of the ark and returns with the Torah, bringing the week’s story to explore. Finally, the ark travels back home to discover a rainbow to welcome in the new week ahead with light. Ark Adventures features a mix of original music (written by Ark Adventures creator Jonathan Shmidt Chapman and musician Adam Blotner) and traditional Shabbat music.