BWW Reviews: A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD at The Growing Stage Charms

A Year with Frog and Toad is now charming audiences at The Growing Stage, The Children's Theatre of New Jersey through May 10th. Directed by Lori B. Lawrence with musical direction by Laura Petrie and choreography by Jillian Petrie, this show is absolutely delightful. Welcome spring with the Tony Award nominated musical that will please children and adults alike. Make a family day of it. I attended a school-time matinee and the adults were just as entranced as the children.

Based on the books by Arnold Lobel, you will enjoy this imaginative and entertaining show about two great friends, jovial Toad and grumpy Frog. As they frolic through the seasons, planting seeds, swimming, raking leaves and sledding, the truest of friendships is revealed.

The story is lively and beautifully performed by five performers. The abundant talents of Ryan Maylar as Frog and Jason Scott Quinn as Toad anchor the cast. The contrast between these two characters is charming. Whether they are flying a kite or baking cookies, their very different personalities make each scene an adventure.

Animal friends that make the stories pop are played by Jerielle Morwitz, Izzy Figuiroa and Lauren Palmeri. The three perform together as charming birds planning their migration and also assume other roles. Moritz does a wonderful portrayal of Turtle. Figueroa is hysterical as Snail and brings new meaning to the idea of "Snail Mail." And Palmeri is adorable as Mouse.

The musical numbers include vibrant and humorous company pieces like Getta Load of Toad by the whole company and Toad to the Rescue by Toad and the Moles. And there are also thoughtful numbers like Alone by Frog and He'll Never Know performed by Frog and Toad.

A Year with Frog and Toad has great special touches that are colorful, creative and functional. With nearly 20 numbers, the show flows seamlessly. The production staff includes scenic design and painting by Perry Arthur Kroeger, costume design by Lori Lawrence and lighting design by S.L Fredericks. The Stage Manager is Becky Nitka, Light Board Operator is Justin Watt, Spotlight Operator is Haley Lang and Backstage Assistants are Amanda Beck and Mackenzie Miller.

The seasons may change but one thing is certain, good friends are important to everyone and A Year with Frog and Toad proves it. See it now through Mother's Day Weekend. The Growing Stage, The Children's Theatre of New Jersey is located at 7 Ledgewood Avenue, Netcong, New Jersey 07857. You can call them at (973) 347-4946 or visit their web site at www.growingstage.com.

You can also join The Growing Stage this summer for their "Summer Creative Arts Academy" for children from Pre-Kindergarten to 8th grade. Call or visit their web site for more information.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of The Growing Stage

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