THE PLAY: A modern musical take on the classic fairy tale.

 

THE PRODUCTION: When you enter the theatre, the walls are painted with colorful “bricks.” This hints at the energetic fun that’s in store with this lively production. While the ensemble is uniformly fun, Alexander Sapp’s creation of the titular character is delightfully clever and Christie Jackson creates a fun, feisty princess. If Kathy Halenda’s superlative solo hadn’t ended the first act, it would have stopped the show anyway. Director/choreographer Debra Clinton has stocked the show full of wacky energy (although the dressing table scene could had been upstage to give it better sightlines). To make the show appeal to adults (who may enjoy it more than the little ones), Clinton, who also penned the book & lyrics, has added plenty of witty rhymes and clever cultural references. The score by Jason Marks is in the traditional musical style, but every song is tuneful and the harmonies are lovely. It’s a shame to have such a stellar production with an “orchestration” that sounds so obviously synthesized. In addition to the bricks, Grenville Burgess has designed a psychedelic set that’s appropriately accented by B.J. Wilkinson’s lighting. To make the show even more vibrant, Jeanne Nugent has created costumes with a fantastic explosion of color and patterns.

 

THE POINT: Every minute of this fantastically-mounted musical is rollicking, rousing fun. You can’t help but leave with a big grin.

 

(5 / 5)

 

A Virginia Rep Children’s Theatre production at Willow Lawn thru 4/15