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ABOUT THE SHOW
Tale Travelers is an immersive, interactive adventure that brings the magic of literature to life within the iconic Geisel Library at UC San Diego. In this one-of-a-kind experience, audiences of all ages don’t just step into a story - they become the story. Each participant has mysteriously fallen from the pages of a book, but which one? To find their way home, they must journey through the library, encountering legendary literary figures who just might hold the clues they need.
Along the way, travelers will learn a sea shanty from the notorious Captain Hook, witness the spark of creation with Dr. Frankenstein, unravel timeless tales with Scheherazade, and meet other unforgettable characters who will help (or hinder) their quest. Each encounter brings them closer to unlocking their own story, blending theatrical wonder with the joy of discovery.
With surprises around every corner, Tale Travelers is an adventure through the worlds of classic literature, where books come alive and the audience becomes part of the narrative. Whether you’re a book lover, an aspiring storyteller, or simply ready to step into the unknown, this interactive theatrical event invites you to lose yourself in the magic of stories - because in this library, you are the missing piece and the books are very much alive.
Tale Travelers is presented by La Jolla Playhouse as part of the 2024 Without Walls Festival.
BUY TICKETS
Tickets for "Tale Travelers" are $12 and available through La Jolla Playhouse. Showtimes are below. Groups will depart every 10 minutes. Please ensure your full party is reserved for the same time slot if you would like to experience "Tale Travelers" together.
Thursday, April 24th: 6:00pm, 6:10pm, 6:20pm, 6:30pm, 6:40pm, 6:50pm, 7:00pm
Saturday, April 26th: 11:00am, 11:10am, 11:20am, 11:30am, 11:40am, 11:50am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm, 3:10pm, 3:20pm, 3:30pm, 3:40pm, 3:50pm, 4:00pm
Sunday, April 27th: 11:00am, 11:10am, 11:20am, 11:30am, 11:40am, 11:50am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm, 3:10pm, 3:20pm, 3:30pm, 3:40pm, 3:50pm, 4:00pm
We encourage audience members to arrive early, as latecomers may not be allowed in.
MEET THE ARTISTS
Producers:
Blake McCarty and Shellina Hefner
Associate Producers:
Abi Hood and Hannah Frederick
Written by:
Blake McCarty, Sashank Kanchustambam, Shellina Hefner, Emma Lias, and Josiah Lopez
Developed by:
Hannah Frederick, Shellina Hefner, Abi Hood, Emma Lias, Josiah Lopez, Sashank Kanchustambam, Blake McCarty, Nathan Nonhof, and Kyle Waterman
Directed by:
Shellina Hefner and Abi Hood
Featuring:
Coming soon!
Stage Manager:
Kyle Waterman
Assistant Stage Managers:
Coming soon!
Set Designer:
Kyle Waterman
Costume Designer:
Hannah Frederick
Sound Designer:
Shellina Hefner
Projections Designer:
Blake McCarty
A special thanks to our friends at the Geisel Library!
THE VENUE
All performances of Tale Travelers will take place at the Geisel Library on UCSD's campus
Geisel Library is located at
9701 Hopkins Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093
Parking is available in the various parking lots on UCSD's campus. The closest parking is at the Hopkins Structure, however parking is limited and we suggest using a rideshare.
FREquently asked questions
How does this work?
Travelers will gather at the front entrance to the Geisel Library. Groups that arrive early will wait in a gathering space, where they will be guided to the first stationary moment of the play and encounter an actor who then will guide them to locations throughout the library.
How will I know what to do or where to go?
Upon following the map to UCSD's campus and parking, you will be guided by signage and personnel.
Is this show child-friendly?
This show was written with ages 8 - 12 in mind, however audience members of all ages will enjoy.
Are the performers going to interact with me?
This piece is interactive, so travelers will be spoken to and asked questions, as well as asked to participate in activities. There will be no physical contact without permission.
What should I wear?
Attendees are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and clothing because audience members will be moving and may be asked to stand for some pieces.
I am disabled or use a mobility device. Can I see this show?
For travelers who use wheelchairs or mobility aids, we’ve designed the journey to be as accessible as possible. While much of the experience involves moving through the space, all paths are wheelchair accessible, and seating will be available at various points along the way.
How long is the show?
The show is approximately 1 hour long with no intermission.
Is this a La Jolla Playhouse production?
The show is being presented by Blindspot Collective in collaboration with La Jolla Playhouse for the 2025 Without Walls Festival.
CONTACT US
Tale Travelers is presented by
Blindspot Collective, a performing arts organization based in San Diego.
Blindspot Collective develops artistic programming to illuminate voices, communities, and stories
in the blindspot of our society.
If you have questions or wish to learn more, please email us at info@blindspotcollective.org