At the edge of a valley so quiet and pretty,
stands a five-storey building far away from the city.
On each floor of the building lives a very different animal: a fat hen, a cuckoo, a pampered black cat, and a voracious squirrel. The fifth floor once belonged to Mr. Mouse, but when he disappears, the neighbours hang a sign in the window that reads: “A Flat to Rent”.
Many animals come to see the empty flat. Each visit follows a familiar rhythm of curious questions and playful exclamations — but every visitor finds something they cannot accept about one of the neighbours, and the flat remains empty.
At last, a dove arrives who loves the neighbours just as much as the house. Together, the tenants discover that living side by side means accepting one another as they are — and the house finally fills with friendship, peace, and love.
In Savannah Kids’ stage adaptation, the story unfolds within a one-of-a-kind textile world. The house, animals, and props are lovingly crafted from recycled clothing and fabrics, giving new life to materials that might otherwise be overlooked. Just as the characters learn to see the value in one another, everyday fabrics are transformed into a rich, tactile stage environment, inviting young audiences to notice, imagine, and celebrate the beauty in things — and in each other — that might at first seem ordinary.
Duration: 45 minutes
Ages: 3–9 years
Themes: Coexistence, kindness to neighbors, sharing space, empathy, and discovering joy in living together
Tone: Playful, heartwarming, and imaginative — with gentle humour, lively songs, and a sense of wonder
Interactivity: The house is full of doors and windows, and the audience is invited to join in opening and closing them through a fun, interactive ritual. Children become part of the neighborhood, helping the story unfold and celebrating the playful life of the house and its residents
Sensory Notes: Suitable for sensitive children — no loud bangs or flashing lights. Soft transitions, immersive puppetry, and a visually rich, magical stage world
Visual Experience: A house and world built entirely from recycled clothes and fabrics, with inventive puppetry, colourful handmade props, and a vibrant textile environment that transforms everyday materials into a magical, living storybook
Languages: English and Hebrew
Credits:
Written and Created by: Savannah Zwi
Based on the book: Dira LeHaskir by Leah Goldberg (translated from Hebrew to English by Savannah Zwi)
Music: Phil Marks and Savannah Zwi. The Show also features the song "Wouldn’t It Be Loverly" from the film My Fair Lady.
Set, Prop, and Costume Design: Savannah Zwi
Hebrew Translation: Orit Binderman, with original texts by Leah Goldberg
Building the Five-Storey House - Bringing the Story to Life:
Inspired by Shmuel Katz’s whimsical illustrations, the set is crafted from recycled fabrics.
