Word for WordPLAY
Discover the magic of Word for Word, where timeless stories come to life for audiences of all ages.
Word for WordPLAY Pajama Fam Jam
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.
Pajamas encouraged (it's National Pajamas Day!), but not required. Dress to be comfy! Squishmellows and favorite stuffies welcome.
The story readings start at 11, with doors at 10:45. We'll have fun games and activities in between readings. While we will admit late comers, this is a performance, not a drop-in style event, so don't miss out on the fun!
Outside food and snacks welcome.
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
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, bringing 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
A Word for WordPLAY Story Pop!
Saturday, May 10th, 2pm
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.
