BWW Reviews: Imagination Rules IVY & BEAN: THE MUSICAL at Orlando Rep

The innocence of childhood is alive and well in the Orlando Rep's production of IVY & BEAN: THE MUSICAL. Based on the hit children's book series by Annie Barrows, IVY & BEAN: THE MUSICAL starts at the beginning of the pair's friendship. Though they live on the same cul-de-sac, Pancake Court, Ivy and Bean could not be any different.

Ivy is a quiet girl who keeps to herself as she reads alone on her stoop, while Bean is a rambunctious seven year old who just can't stay out of trouble. One of the banes of Bean's existence is her older sister, Nancy. Ivy and Bean find friendship as they try to get back at Nancy for being so bossy. The cast of other kids set the stage for Ivy and Bean to have fun using their imaginations and attempting to break world records. Though at times their friendship is tested, Ivy and Bean remain friends and swear through the bonds of spit, to tell each other their secrets.

Set to a catchy score by Scott Elmegreen, this was a perfect young best friend musical. Bean, played by Chloe Robin, is energetic and funny. Robin matches Bena's personality as the troublesome and overdramatic younger sister. Ivy, played by Bella Muller, is sweet, smart, and very imaginative. Both ladies have fantastic singing voices that are youthful and powerful.

Once again the Orlando Rep pulls off an amazing set that has a working second storey. The homes on Pancake Court are colorful and inviting, just like the illustrations in the books.

Great for young audiences, IVY & BEAN: THE MUSICAL runs until October 6, 2013 at Orlando Rep. Directed by Jani Walsh-Weber, IVY & BEAN stars Lauren Culver, Nick Mazzini, Bella Muller, Chloe Robin, Lorelei Sandberg, and Sage Starkey. For tickets and more information visit www.orlandorep.com.

Photo Credit: Orlando Repertory Theatre