Isaac Mizrahi's Vision for Peter & the Wolf at the Guggenheim

The holiday season in New York City is marked by various traditions, one of which is the performance of *Peter & the Wolf* at the Guggenheim Museum. Since 2007, this adaptation of Sergei Prokofiev's 1936 musical fable has been narrated by Isaac Mizrahi, who has also taken on the roles of director and designer since 2013. The production features a unique blend of dance and narration, with each character represented by a specific instrument and corresponding dance style. For the 2025 performances, the show will be accompanied by Carnegie Hall’s Ensemble Connect and conducted by Michael P. Atkinson.

New York Observer

Isaac Mizrahi's involvement with *Peter & the Wolf* began when he was approached by producer Charles Fabius. Mizrahi's vision for the production emphasizes a "poor theatre" aesthetic, focusing on simplicity and creativity over elaborate costumes and sets. For instance, the duck character is humorously portrayed with a tutu and a PBS tote bag, embodying a relatable Upper West Side persona. Mizrahi believes that this approach resonates with audiences, particularly children, who appreciate the straightforward mechanics of live theater.

New York Observer

Mizrahi expresses a deep appreciation for the reactions of young audience members, noting their spontaneous comments during performances. He recalls moments when children would shout out warnings during the show, enhancing the interactive experience. Many adults also return year after year, citing the production as a highlight of their holiday season due to its intimate and engaging nature.

New York Observer

The collaboration with choreographer John Heginbotham has been pivotal in shaping the dance-theater production. Mizrahi and Heginbotham's partnership began with a desire to create a dance narrative that complements the musical score. Their shared vision has resulted in a production that balances humor and artistry, appealing to both children and adults.

New York Observer

As the 2025 season of *Peter & the Wolf* opens on December 5 and runs through December 14, Mizrahi looks forward to introducing new cast members and continuing this beloved tradition. He emphasizes the importance of live theater and the joy it brings to audiences, particularly during the festive season.

New York Observer

• “I love thrilling them and maybe scaring them just a little bit, because I think it’s so fun to be scared.” — Isaac Mizrahi, Director and Designer

New York Observer

• “What ends up coming across is this kind of weird, Saul Steinbergian, New Yorker-like humorous piece.” — Isaac Mizrahi, Director and Designer

New York Observer

• “ But some people come to see the show year after year after year, and they say it is the highlight of the season for them, because it is so intimate and real.” — Isaac Mizrahi, Director and Designer

New York Observer

Isaac Mizrahi's *Peter & the Wolf* at the Guggenheim continues to be a cherished holiday tradition, blending music, dance, and storytelling in a way that captivates audiences of all ages. With its emphasis on simplicity and engagement, the production remains a testament to the enduring power of live theater.

New York Observer