Review: PINOCCHIO at Coachella Valley Rep
I came into this production of Pinocchio very excited, as I am a huge fan of the 1940 Walt Disney animated masterpiece.
Firstly, I would like to thank my new readers for joining my adventure with Broadway World out here in beautiful Palm Springs, California. Last night I had the pleasure of seeing Coachella Valley Repertory’s production of “Pinocchio”—which, I am proud to say, after writing this article, I can now officially spell.
I came into this production of Pinocchio very excited, as I am a huge fan of the 1940 Walt Disney animated masterpiece.
CVRep’s production takes place on a theatre stage in Italy, where five set painters find themselves unexpectedly needing to entertain an eager audience. Using only what they have around them, the story of Pinocchio unfolds, and it was as tight, charming, and masterful as I’d expect from CVRep.
Pinocchio (Joseph Kolody) is the classic tale of Geppetto (Chuck Yates) and his wooden puppet’s journey toward becoming a “real boy.” You will leave the theatre giddy with glee after watching Haley Kooyman’s Cricket (and various other characters) spring to life; her every movement is elegant, effective, and enchanting. When she plays a fellow puppet, don’t be surprised if you find yourself checking to see if she truly has strings.
Along Pinocchio’s journey, he encounters The Cat (also played by Chuck Yates), who, when paired with Douglass Sorenson’s cool and persuasive Fox, forms a silly, villainous duo that navigates every comedic moment with both freshness and familiarity.
Joshua Rach rounds out the cast, bringing many charming characters to life, including the you-love-him-or-you-hate-him bad influence Lampwick. Personally, I loved him, and I couldn’t wait to watch him turn into a donkey—and the good news is that it wasn’t nearly as scary as the cartoon!
Director Howard Shangraw’s production features clever use of props, masks, sound, and costumes. The car ride home will likely be filled with enthusiastic discussions about favorite moments, characters, and how fun it is to place a mop on top of your head to suddenly become someone entirely different. Exposure to such quality theatre for children will no doubt inspire lasting memories and creativity.
Viewing live theatre teaches empathy, fosters strong communication skills, encourages creative problem-solving, and develops theatre etiquette. Take the kiddos to the theatre!
Pinocchio is produced as part of CVRep’s Conservatory program this weekend, November 6–9, and next weekend, November 13–15. Tickets are “Pay What You Want” and are available online, by phone, or at the Box Office. Visit www.cvrep.org or call 760-296-2966.
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