BWW Reviews: KNUFFLE BUNNY - A Family Treasure at The Growing Stage
Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical is now being performed at The Growing Stage, The Children's Theatre of New Jersey through May 18th. This delightful show has a clever, thoughtful story, with musical numbers and puppetry to charm audiences of all ages.
The script and lyrics are by Mo Williams who also wrote popular children's book, Knuffle Bunny, A Cautionary Tale and the music is by Michael Silversher. The Growing Stage production is wonderfully directed by Stephen Fredericks with musical direction by Laura Petrie and choreography by Jillian Petrie. The attractive set and puppet design is by Perry Arthur Kroeger.
Knuffle Bunny is the story of a very active toddler, Trixie (Emily Cara Portune), who loses her treasured bunny toy while spending a day with Dad (J.D. Kellman). Mom (Jerielle Morwitz) does not have much confidence that her husband can handle young Trixie and her antics. This is a heartwarming piece of theatre that runs just under an hour; a perfect time for a young audience.
In the opening number, Mom sings Life is Tricky with Trixie and we learn that it is indeed a challenge. Trixie is a typically active toddler who doesn't quite talk yet. In a trip to the local laundromat, Dad and Trixie have every day encounters that turn into real adventures. From the noisy city streets to Trixie's fascination with a pigeon, Dad has his hands full. This small cast of characters is in full command of their roles as they capture both the joys and frustrations of family life and send all the right messages about love and devotion.
The puppetry also makes this show a real pleasure. Puppeteers Dorothy James, Jane Keitel and Kristopher Howard make the scenes pop with a giant Knuffle Bunny, dancing laundry and much, much more.
Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical is a wonderful opportunity for families and friends to enjoy a fun show. The Growing Stage is located at 7 Ledgewood Avenue in Netcong, New Jersey at the historic Palace Theatre. For tickets for and information about the theater visit their web site at http://www.growingstage.com/main/. .
Photo Credit: Danny Campos
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