Z Space

Word for WordPLAY

Word for Word is expanding its unique approach of bringing literature to the stage with Word for WordPLAY, a new program for children and their families. We hope to offer a space where the power of play, self-expression, and imagination takes center stage—inviting families to connect, laugh, and explore together through the magic of literature and theater.

This year, Word for WordPLAY will launch with a series of family events that will include performances of stories along with other creative activities like theater games (zip-zap-zop, imaginary object relay race, etc.), face-painting, juggling, puzzles, and more all around fun. In early 2026, Word for WordPLAY will premier its first production, briging the same great acting, staging, and design that you've come to expect from Word for Word. Our approach of using every word from beloved texts will bring the infinite creative possibilities of literature and theater to a new generation.

Upcoming Word for WordPLAY Events

Word for WordPLAY Family Playdate
Sunday, February 23rd, 11am - 2pm
at Z Space
Free with reservation

A fun-filled day of activities announcing this new program to our extended Word for Word and Z Space family. We'll have lots of literature and theater-themed activities for children, including pictionary, juggling, family freeze dance, charades, and much more. We'll invite your children to learn alongside a cheerful, little crocodile and a very dramatic Ankylosaurus, while parents learn about all the exciting activities we'll have for families in the coming year.

Reserve your spot now! You can drop in on this event at any point during its duration.

Pajama Fam Jam and Storytime!
Sunday, April 6th, 11am - 1pm
at Z Space
Free with reservation

Come relax with the whole family, drink some hot chocolate, and listen to some of your favorite kids' stories being read by Word for WordPLAY director Gendell Hing-Hernández. With years of experience as a Word for Word performer and teacher, Gendell has a unique talent for making stories come to life and engaging children's imagination. We'll also have fun games and activities in addition to the readings.

Stories include:
Room on the Broom, ZOG, and The Snail and the Whale by Julia Donaldson
The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Dewalt
Up the Mountain Path by Marianne Dubuc
Love Monster by Rachel Bright
The Mountain That Loved a Bird by Alice McLerran
The Woman Who Outshone The Sun: The Legend of Lucia Zenteno by Alejandro Cruz Martinez & Rosa Zubzarreta

A Word for WordPLAY Story Pop!
Saturday, May 10th, 11am - 1pm
at Z Space
Free with reservation

Featuring selections from The Eyes and The Impossible by David Eggers

Word for WordPLAY Story Pop! readings are a lot like our “grown-up” Off the Page series. We'll have a full cast of Word for Word actors and feature the classic imaginative and evocative Word for Word performance style, that brings stories to life for you and your family.

For our very first performance we are honored to be presenting the work of David Eggers! The Eyes and The Impossible is "a lyrical, soulful book full of wit and passion...a timeless story for readers of all ages." It takes you to the inner world of Johannes, a free and fast dog — and his job as the "eyes" of an urban park by the sea. Join him in his trials and tribulations as the equilibrium of the park is upset by an influx of humans, construction, and goats.