Saturday, January 31, 2015

Boston Children's Theatre Presents "Stuart Little" - No Small Achievement!




I have just returned from experiencing my first production by Boston Children's Theatre - "Stuart Little," Directed by Peter Ellenstein.  I was impressed, delighted, enthralled and enchanted.  I knew of the story, having read to book to my sons many years ago.  The talented actors and creative team of BCT made the story leap off of the page and into the hearts of the audience members.

Families who live in the Boston/Cambridge area should be aware that this is a production that would delight children from toddlers to adolescence.  I became aware of the work and mission of BCT when I recently became acquainted with Toby Schine, Executive Director of BCT and Executive Producer for this production.  I was delighted when he invited me to come and see the kind of work that they do in their space at the Cambridge YMCA in Central Square.

While it is my practice not to critique the individual work of young non-professional actors, I will say that the entire cast is impressive in their acting, singing, movement and stage presence.  They present themselves as self-assured veterans of the stage, which speaks well of the training provided by the staff at BCT.  Production values are high, with creative props and set pieces that were easily movable. Set Design is by Pierre Vuilleumier, Musical Direction by Mindy Cimini and Choreography by Nicole Soriano..

The theme of the story is heart-warming, and speaks to anyone of us who has ever struggled to fit in because there is something different and unique about us.  The songs, composed by Ronna Frank with lyrics by Ms. Frank and Joseph Robinette were well executed, especially the songs "Sa's'parilla" and "Size."

Actors hail from Boston, Belmont, Byfield, Cambridge, Chelmsford, Dorchester, Medford, Merrimac, Newton and Wayland.

The size of the protagonist may be small, the age of the players may be young, but the impact of their work is huge. Don't be caught in the trap of neglecting to secure your tickets to one of the remaining performances of "Stuart Little."  This story of an endearing and intrepid little mouse is anything but cheesy!

STUART LITTLE- The Musical
January 31 at 2 pm and 4 pm
February 1 at 2 pm and 4 pm
February 7 at 2 pm and 4 pm
February 8 at 2 pm and 4 pm
It’s the story of the little mouse with a big personality and a big sense of adventure! Experience this classic tale based on the book by E.B. White on stage at BCT in this fun and engaging musical production. Join little Stuart on his journeys in the big city- it’s an adventure for the whole family to enjoy!  STUART LITTLE will be performed at the Cambridge YMCA, 820 Mass Ave, Cambridge.  Single Tickets Now On Sale! 
Tickets available for all performances.  For questions, contact the BCT Box Office at boxoffice@bostonchildrenstheatre.org or 617-424-6634, x222.
Enjoy!
Al

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