THE PLAY: The classic children’s book about a bunny’s bedtime ritual is expanded to include songs based on nursery rhymes and other flights of fancy.

 

THE PRODUCTION: It’s not often that I see a children’s show when the young audience is rapt in attention and giggling with glee for a full hour. This is one of those times. Director/choreographer Susan Sandford has staged the show with lively wit and inventive fun. She also gets credit for assembling an enthusiastic and charming cast: Brandon McKinney is gleefully entertaining in the lead and Jessi Johnson makes the Old Lady a sweet, lovely presence. Although every musical number (under Paul Deiss’ able direction) is fun, Brent Gallahan’s “Tooth Fairy” is a hilarious highlight. The sound design, special effects props and Chase Kniffen’s storybook set round out the show’s magical appeal.

 

THE POINT: Young audiences will be enchanted with this colorful, entertaining and delightful theatrical experience.

 

(5 / 5)

 

Virginia Rep’s Children’s Theatre at Willow Lawn thru 8/2