Simple, but magical delights bring Beatrix Potter to life at Chicago Children's Theatre
THEATRE REVIEW
The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party
By Andy Sinclair
Headliner Chicago
The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party
By Andy Sinclair
Headliner Chicago
In 1902, Beatrix Potter wrote The Tale of Peter Rabbit, thus launching the career of one of England’s most well-respected children’s authors. Over the next few years, Potter would continue to tell the tales of very adult issues, shrouded under the veil of adorable and highly-opinionated animal characters. Ms. Potter worked diligently to never speak down to children, asking young minds to think broadly about human emotions and cares.
Now, nearly 120 year later, the stories and characters of Beatrix Potter are alive and well at the Chicago Children’s Theatre. Featuring The Tale of Tom Kitten, The Tailor of Gloucester, The Tale of Mr. Jeremy Fisher, and the aforementioned The Tale of Peter Rabbit, this tightly-packed 60-minute production is perfect for audience members two to six years old. The parents and caretakers who accompany these young theatre goers will be equally entertained and impressed by the stylish precision of the storytelling.
Now, nearly 120 year later, the stories and characters of Beatrix Potter are alive and well at the Chicago Children’s Theatre. Featuring The Tale of Tom Kitten, The Tailor of Gloucester, The Tale of Mr. Jeremy Fisher, and the aforementioned The Tale of Peter Rabbit, this tightly-packed 60-minute production is perfect for audience members two to six years old. The parents and caretakers who accompany these young theatre goers will be equally entertained and impressed by the stylish precision of the storytelling.
The stories exude childlike excitement through the work of three polished and enchanting actors. Charlie Malave, Time Brickey and Kay Kron skillfully make the two-dimension Potter puppets come to life with humor, mystery and spirit. The live music serves as a perfect underscore and often allows the ensemble to break into songs that heighten dramatic moments or transition actions within a story. This energy, coupled with a simple and breathtaking scenic design (which centers on magical boxes), allows for a sense of old-school magic rarely seen in this digital age.
The best review of this performance came from our two-year old daughter, who marked her first theatre experience during this performance. Her wide eyes, applause, and smile reminded us that the magic of theatre - and of Beatrix Potter - is important at all ages. I anticipate that she will be disappointed, however, when she realizes that not all theater performances end with a cookie and milk tea party in the lobby.
3.5 stars (out of four)
The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party
Now Playing until December 24, 2021
Chicago Children's Theatre
100 South Racine
Chicago, IL 60607
www.chicagochildrenstheatre.org
The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party
Now Playing until December 24, 2021
Chicago Children's Theatre
100 South Racine
Chicago, IL 60607
www.chicagochildrenstheatre.org