A PARK FULL OF
VOICES AND VALUES

Dave Eggers’ children’s tale comes
to life with charm and clarity

Nic Moore

Bay Area author Dave Eggers is known for adult novels that blend social commentary, satire, and memoir, including A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius (2000). He often uses storytelling as a tool for empathy. The Eyes & The Impossible (2023), however, is a children’s story aimed at middle school–aged readers. Centered on freedom and friendship, it won the 2024 Newbery Medal.

Sofia Ahmad, Nic Moore, Michael Craig Patterson

The big open floor space at Z Space proves ideal for telling this story of wild animals inhabiting a large, unnamed urban park. With its many recognizable landmarks, it bears a strong resemblance to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park. Colm McNally & Sarah Phykitt‘s design of brightly colored trees and bushes may remind Baby Boomers of the sets from 1970s Syd & Marty Krofft shows like H.R. Pufnstuf. Pillows on the floor allow younger audience members to sit up close to the action.

Nic Moore

Johannes (Nic Moore) is the stray dog who narrates the story. He is joined by a host of animal friends who pop in and out, sharing their own experiences of life in the park: Bertrand the seagull (Michael Craig Patterson), Sonja the squirrel (Hanna Mae Sturges), Yolanda the pelican (Caroline Morones), and Angus the raccoon (Tasi Alabastro). The ensemble (with the exception of Johannes) also takes on human roles (Laura Hazlett, costumes).

Sofia Ahmad, Nic Moore

Unlike many children’s shows that rely on Dr. Seuss–style rhymes or silly songs, Johannes speaks in a straightforward, earnest tone. He educates audiences of all ages about maintaining a healthy balance between humans and animals sharing the park. Vehicles and reckless human behavior can disrupt that balance and damage the environment, and Johannes reminds us that caring for the space is everyone’s responsibility.

Hannah Mae Sturges, Nic Moore, Tasi Alabastro

The story unfolds in two acts, representing two chapters from the book. This structure helps keep the audience—especially younger viewers—engaged. At roughly 90 minutes, including intermission, the show, directed by Delia Macdougall, feels appropriately paced to deliver its message. At times, the tone edges into the preachy, with its lessons on social responsibility stated quite directly. Still, a quick informal survey of children at intermission (ages six to ten) revealed that they were enjoying the show and would happily recommend it to friends.

Hannah Mae Sturges and Tasi Alabastro

And that may be the most important measure. The target audience is engaged and having fun. It’s refreshing to see a production in San Francisco that speaks to younger viewers without talking down to them—offering a story that entertains, carries meaning, and respects its audience’s intelligence.

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photos by Jessica Palopoli

The Eyes & The Impossible
Z Space and Word for Word
Z Space’s Steindler Stage, 450 Florida St., San Francisco
ends on March 15, 2026 (15 performances)
90 minutes, with intermission
for tickets ($35-$75), visit Z Space

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