PARIS – Daddy Rat will search for a mate for his daughter in one segment of the puppet theater Figures of Speech’s “Far East” performance Saturday, Sept. 1, at Celebration Barn Theater.

In a story from China called “The Rat’s Wedding,” arrogant Daddy Rat searches for the most powerful being in the world to marry his precious daughter. Should it be Wind? Or Black Cloud? How about the Sun himself? Audience members will see how every creature has an important place in the world – even rats.

The rat hand puppets are the creation of renowned German puppet designer Antje Hohmuth.

In Japan’s hauntingly lyrical “Crane Wife,” an injured bird transforms into a beautiful woman with mysterious powers that she must keep secret in order to survive.

Carol and John Farrell founded Figures of Speech in 1982 to explore the interplay of puppets, movement and masks. Believing that audiences experience art best when they are called upon to engage their imaginations fully, the company produces visual theater that emphasizes myth and transformation.

Figures of Speech Theatre is a four-time recipient of the coveted UNIMA Citation of Excellence, the highest distinction in North American puppet theater, as well as numerous grant awards from organizations, including the National Endowment for the Arts, the Rockefeller Foundation, the Jim Henson Foundation and the New England Foundation for the Arts.

“Far East” was created in collaboration with Maine-based choreographer Louis Gervais, formerly a dancer with Lar Lubovitch Company in New York and Compagnie Marie Chouinard in Montreal, and twice winner of the grand prize from the Dance Portland Choreography Competition.

“Far East” will be performed by Gervais and Carol Farrell at 8 p.m. Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and $8 for students. Reservations are recommended and may be made by calling the box office at 743-8452. Celebration Barn Theater is on Stock Farm Road, just off Route 117. For more information, log on to www.CelebrationBarn.com.