For Schools

Eddie & Vinnie - Field Trip

By Jenny Millinger

Most enjoyed by Grades 1-6

Weekdays, April 23rd- May 16th, 2025
M,T, Th, F- 9:30 am and 11:30 am
W- 10:30 am

Location: Herberger Theater Center - Stage West

Price: $15 per person, Field Trip Plus: $18 per student

Runtime: 70 minutes, including talkback.

Tomás Rivera travels with his Amá, his Apá, his Grandfather, Papá

Grande, and his little brother Enrique from Crystal City, Texas, all the

way to Hampton, Iowa, to find work picking corn, spinach and beets.

Tomás is haunted by memories of a teacher in his Texas school who

punished him for speaking Spanish. His parents are worried about him,

but reassure him that he is smart and talented, and that his Papá

Grande thinks he will become a writer or a painter some day.

When the Riveras arrive in Iowa, they discover that their new home is

little more than a chicken coop. But the family carries on, getting

occasional treats like pan dulce, (sweet bread) and listening to Apá

Grande’s stories. One day Tomás’ Amá sends him to the post office,

and he discovers the Carnegie Library next door. The Library Lady

invites him in and introduces Tomás to books about anything and

everything he can possibly imagine. Tomás enthusiastically shares the

new stories that he has found with his family, and he and his brother

Enrique find other books in the town dump. Tomás teaches the Library

Lady some Spanish, while he becomes more confident in English and

realizes that he doesn’t need to be afraid of the Nightmare Teacher any

longer. Then comes the day when Tomás comes to visit the library with

his Papá Grande and tells her that he must teach her a sad word in

Spanish: Adiós.

Tomás Rivera grew up to become the father of Chicano literature, as

well as the Chancellor of the University of California at Riverside. The

library there bears the name of the boy who was encouraged to read

by a library lady in Iowa.

Based on the true story of Tomás Rivera and the book by Pat Mora,

this play is a celebration of reading, imagination and creativit

Eddie & Vinnie is a buddy comedy about Eddie, a boy with dyslexia, and his best friend/sidekick, a wise-cracking gecko named Vinnie. Eddie is a skilled artist, but struggles with schoolwork. When facing the possibility of attending summer school if he can't get his grades up, Eddie teams with the overly helpful new girl in class to write their end-of-the-year report. It seems like Vinnie is always there to distract him…or is she challenging Eddie to lean into his uniquely beautiful mind? Through Eddie's journey students will discover the importance of empathy, understanding, and recognizing each individual's diverse strengths.

Book Field Trip

Designed to resonate with educators and students, this play raises awareness about dyslexia, which affects one in five people. By showcasing the unique strengths and qualities of individuals with dyslexia, Eddie & Vinnie dispels misconceptions, reduces stigma, and encourages meaningful conversations about the topic.

With its relatable characters and powerful message, Eddie & Vinnie is an excellent addition to any school's educational programming. Your students will want to experience this comedy that celebrates the power of creativity and imagination!

Questions?

Interested in Field Trip PLUS?

"Plus up" your field trip experience and extend your learning with interactive drama activities connected to the themes of the show! Want to learn more? Contact MMeyers@childsplayaz.org.

Eddie and Vinnie by Jenny Millinger produced by special arrangement with author.

Field-trip discounted ticket prices are underwritten by Cheryl Mandala

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