REVIEW: Fox Theatre Brings an Enjoyable Production of LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE - THE MUSICAL to the Stage 11/24 - 11/29

Even if you've never watched the popular TV show that ran from the mid-1970's to the early 1980's, or read Laura Ingalls Wilder's popular children's novel, you'll still find plenty to enjoy watching Little House on the Prairie - The Musical. This is a sweet and charming show that illustrates the true pioneer spirit of the settlers who forged new lives for themselves in the western frontier. An enjoyable and engaging production is currently playing the Fox Theatre through November 29, 2009.

Wilder's novel is adhered to fairly faithfully by Rachel Sheinkin's book, although it comes off more like the television series due to its episodic structure. Still, the familiar elements are all in place. This version follows the family's journey westward, their struggle to make good on their land claim, and the maturation of daughter Laura, from prairie wild child to surprisingly responsible adult. Along the way we run into familiar characters like Nellie Oleson, the local merchant's annoyingly smug daughter, Laura's sister Mary, who goes blind after contracting scarlet fever, as well as Almanzo Wilder, the man that Laura will eventually marry.

Kara Lindsay does outstanding work as Laura, managing to accurately portray the character at each stage of her growth. She's blessed with a lovely voice that suits material like the opening number, "Thunder", and the tender duet with her sister Mary, "I'll Be Your Eyes". She's well paired with Kevin Massey who brings a likable quality to his performance as Almanzo. They provide a nice vocal blend on "Faster" as their love begins to grow and blossom, even if Laura won't own up to that fact at first.

Steve Blanchard does a fine, stalwart job as Pa (Charles), and Melissa Gilbert, an audience favorite based on the response she received, is very good as Ma (Caroline). Gilbert also acquits herself well vocally on the song "Wild Child". Alessa Neeck and Carly Rose Sonenclar do solid work as sisters Mary and Carrie, respectively.

Kate Loprest nearly steals the show as Nellie Oleson, but the part is written that way, so you can't blame her for making the most of the role. And, she's also the beneficiary of some of Donna Di Novelli's sharpest lyrics on the songs "Country Girls" and "Without an Enemy", which finds her lamenting Laura's absence.

Director Francesca Zambello keeps the pace moving briskly, although the first act does tend to drag a bit towards the end. She's aided by the sprightly performed choreography of Michele Lynch, as well as Richard Carsey's music direction. Adrianne Lobel's scenic design utilizes a bevy of changeable pieces that effectively suggest the various houses presented, and places them all against a backdrop of blue sky and crimson sunsets. And, all of this is beautifully lit by Mark McCullough. Jess Goldstein's costumes add the right period touch for this 1880's drama.

Though Rachel Portman's music score is pleasant, it's also a tad forgettable, but it does serve the story well. Overall, this family-friendly production is a well played delight, and fans of the original will certainly find a lot to like.

Little House on the Prairie - The Musical continues through November 29, 2009 at the Fox Theatre.

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