We all know the story of Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs. But how about the story of Snow White as told by Professor T.J. Barker’s Troupe Of Theatricals?
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| Pre-show craft before every show! |
That’s right. Betcha didn’t know that one.
Nora and I saw Emerald City Theatre’s sweet production (written and directed by Producing Artistic Director Ernie Nolan) this past Saturday- and I can honestly say that not only will the kiddos will love it, but the adults will find it a refreshing spin on a story read over and over (…and over…and over…) again.
Every Emerald City show has a Gateway Theme, and this production features problem solving. T.J. Barker and his troupe have arrived from far flung lands (like Iowa) to our fair city of Chicago…only they’re missing five dwarfs and the entire orchestra section. But, since his troupe has never cancelled a performance- and they don’t intend to start now- they’re gonna make it work.
Some of the dwarfs will be played by puppets.
The stage manager gets her moment in the spotlight.
Instruments will be strummed and drummed by the troupe.
Snow White…plays the triangle.
There’s some really clever storytelling and play-within-a-play action going on; one of my favorite moments occurred when Queen Malvina paused her horrifying laugh to commend her son, a troupe member who was playing ominous music behind her. (She wondered how he had gotten so good.)
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| But where’s the LAMB? |
There was some positively terrific puppetry going on as well; Nora’s favorite was the gentle and kindly lamb who helps Snow White. The thing was bigger than most cast members, and Nora was certain she was the star of the show. (She asked if she could get her autograph after the show. Sadly, she could not.)
Other highlights:
-The echo-y and ominous mirror (he of “On The Wall” fame) was a neat bit of light and sound. Nora alternated between demanding that he go away (and lights come back on, please), and immediately missing him and questioning his return once those scenes ended. (The mark of good theatre.)
-The vaudevillian sounds, physicality, and interludes between troupe players and Snow White performers. We both really liked all the music, although my city girl heard a slide whistle and knowingly whispered, “There’s a siren here.”
-The fact that it’s an hour long. Because seriously. I love my daughter. A ton. But if I have to make sure she sits still for longer than that, it better come with meal service and an in-flight movie.
That said, she was riveted.
And honestly? So was I.
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The Deets:
Snow White As Performed By T.J. Barker’s Troupe Of Theatricals
Runs January 21- May 20, 2012
Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln Ave, Chicago
Tix starting at $13 for kids and $16 for adults
Rec’d for ages 3 and up (or pretty awesome 2 year-olds)
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Disclaimer: I’ve been compensated for my review, but opinions are my own.
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