THE PLAY: This is history lite: a short, easy overview of the famous Richmond native. Biographical facts (addressed directly to the audience) are interspersed with short scenes that play out highlights from Walker’s life and career.

 

THE PRODUCTION: Even though it’s in the Children’s Theatre, this show is aimed at an audience that can appreciate Walker’s significance and grasp the parade of facts. This extremely talented cast creates enjoyable characters as they move thru multiple roles, especially Jahred King’s comic contributions and Jessi Johnson’s eloquent, assured performance in the title role. Even though it’s loaded with lots of information, playwright Bruce Miller has kept the scenes short and diluted any real drama with an inspirational message. Director John Moon uses a brisk pace and varied staging to keep the biography interesting. The evocative set is attractive, while the costumes are appropriate. The pools of light sometime leave the actors crossing through darkness.

 

THE POINT: A “lite” but informative biography (for older children and adults) that’s well acted and briskly staged.

 

(3.5 / 5)

 

Virginia Rep’s Children’s Theatre at Willow Lawn thru 2/15