Community Reviews

I laughed and laughed through the whole thing

2008-03-06T11:04:00.000-06:00

“If You Give a Mouse a Cookie” was a very funny show. I laughed and laughed through the whole thing because it was soooo silly. One of my favorite parts was when the mouse was dancing and shaking his booty. Another favorite part was when the mouse blew bubbles in his milk with a straw. Oh, another funny part was when he was playing like he was in the jungle. But my most favorite part was when the hair balls starting chasing the boy and the mouse all over the kitchen…I laughed so hard at that part. I had so much fun that I went back to see the show again with some friends from school! – Taylor, age 5

It is a powerful experience.

2008-03-04T11:51:00.003-06:00

Tom Lycos and Stefo Nantsou did an amazing job pulling a story out of the headlines and bringing it to the stage. As a mother of a 13-year-old boy and a professional having worked with young people in the Juvenile Justice system for many years, I have to say that these grown men did a fantastic job portraying teen age boys. Their posture, mannerisms, tone and dress switched so dramatically between the characters that this two man show was fascinating and entertaining to watch. The situations that were created on stage also depicted a reality for what actually does happen for many at-risk youth. Activities that seem victimless to a young person (breaking into garages, damaging property, and throwing stones) really are damaging, and more than just to property. Taking the journey with the two boys from the pranks they pulled to the final verdict provided a powerful platform for further discussion with my son. The scene where the two policemen were at odds regarding what the outcome should be for the boys provided a great opportunity for people to consider both sides of the situation. What if it was my son who had made the mistake? What if it was my parent that had died? These questions force you to take a deeper look at what your personal values around the topic and sparks conversation about consequences to our actions. As an added bonus, the guitar playing before and throughout the play was a great way to get connected with a teen audience. It is a powerful experience and I would recommend it to anyone pre teen and older. - Jocelyn

An extraordinary performance by two unusual actors

2008-03-03T15:28:00.002-06:00

Above, all The Stones is an extraordinary performance by two unusual actors. Tom Lycos and Stefo Nantsou are middle-aged and physically unprepossing: one is snaggle-toothed, the other too small to meet the standard stage requirements; both have the kind of face one is likely to encounter at any Minnesota bus stop. Magically, they transform this all-too-ordinary clay into two unforgettable teen-aged boys, characters at once representative and unique. There’s something silly about trying to capture these astonishing performances in words; you really do have to be there. Lycos and Nantsou embody the kids, two cops, a cat, a Jaguar, a bridge, a freeway…. There’s nothing but them, and that suffices perfectly.

The boys kill a man by behavior that is entirely consonant with who they are, with their heart-breaking immaturity, and with their reckless thrill-seeking. As is so often true in real life, the results of their behavior are out of proportion with their intent. The piece sets up the questions about responsibility, blameworthiness, consequences and appropriate punishment that make juvenile courts the most fascinating part of the criminal justice system. Best of all, the artists do not neatly resolve those questions. The truth in such cases is always a mess, and it cannot be dramatized fairly in plays that draw to a tidy close.

It is hard to make really good theatre out of this kind of material. Most of the time, the efforts are preachy and didactic or veer into melodrama that is both more histrionic and more boring than the facts. The Stones is, against all the odds, really good theatre.

Reviews coming soon!

2008-02-27T14:05:00.003-06:00

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie opens on Friday, February 29. Our community reviewers are waiting anxiously with their pens, pencils, crayons, and fingerpaints to share their thoughts on the show with you! Keep checking back for the latest reviews. In the meantime, why not purchase tickets for you and your family? Click here to see the list of performances.

INTENSE ~ RIVETING ~ COMPELLING ~ AN EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER YOU DON'T WANT TO GET OFF

2008-02-25T15:16:00.002-06:00

My ten year old daughter and I had the privilege of seeing "The Stones" Tuesday evening. At times we laughed and then moments later we were clutching our hands tightly. Upon leaving the theatre I was so overwhelmed with conflicting emotions I actually cried! This show touched me at my core. The ensuing conversation on the drive home was priceless. The life lessons learned in that hour were tremendous! This should be required viewing for kids ages 10 to 17. All the things we try to instill about decisions and consequences are put right in your face at a very real level. How life can change in the blink of an eye by the simplest of things. We can talk to our kids, dole out punishments for bad decisions, all of which are learning experiences, but to view such an impacting performance drives it home in a very REAL way without having to actually experience a life altering event first hand. Tom and Stefo are amazing! The character changes are brilliant. Two guys, two guitars, two sawhorses, one ladder, ONE INCREDIBLY AMAZING PERFORMANCE!!!

Review of Bud, Not Buddy by Katie and Beth

2008-02-17T14:17:00.005-06:00

Bud, Not Buddy – engaging play, great script!

In order to avoid writing about the complicated initial plot developments in CTC's "Bud, Not Buddy," we arrived very fashionably late. The atmosphere in the theater was dark and confusing, reflecting the psychological state of the brave, intrepid ten year-old orphan/hero of the play. We both recognized the actor from a workshop that we had participated in last year at CTC's open house for its new stage. He seemed a LOT taller and had turned from a kid working on his acting to an actor acting like a kid. Katie declared the acting to be good, overall, since the actors made a "sad story not so sad," but at times "a little cheesy." I think the actors showed a brightness of spirit and human affection designed to shine a light on the poverty, racism and social inequity that was the story's backdrop. The irreverence and humor of the "jazz age" was reflected in music, physical humor, jokes and dialogue richly intertwined.

The play involved layered stereotypes – our own of a homeless, orphan child- and that same child's fear of the strange people looming through his uncertain life. A good example is the portrayal of Hooverville, with actors sitting in the dark, huddled and with their backs to the audience. At first Bud didn't trust this group with the suitcase containing his few precious belongings. As the evening unfolded, these struggling people provided true hospitality and earned Bud's, and our, admiration. The stage lighting set out the emotions of this story, with a dark, muted look. Spots turned to the eloquence of the characters. A random end note - we really liked how the strobe lights showed a train coming down the tracks, really conveying the weight and speed of the train.

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Bud, Not Buddy – engaging play, great script!

2008-02-17T14:17:00.004-06:00

In order to avoid writing about the complicated initial plot developments in CTC's "Bud, Not Buddy," we arrived very fashionably late. The atmosphere in the theater was dark and confusing, reflecting the psychological state of the brave, intrepid ten year-old orphan/hero of the play. We both recognized the actor from a workshop that we had participated in last year at CTC's open house for its new stage. He seemed a LOT taller and had turned from a kid working on his acting to an actor acting like a kid. Katie declared the acting to be good, overall, since the actors made a "sad story not so sad," but at times "a little cheesy." I think the actors showed a brightness of spirit and human affection designed to shine a light on the poverty, racism and social inequity that was the story's backdrop. The irreverence and humor of the "jazz age" was reflected in music, physical humor, jokes and dialogue richly intertwined.

The play involved layered stereotypes – our own of a homeless, orphan child- and that same child's fear of the strange people looming through his uncertain life. A good example is the portrayal of Hooverville, with actors sitting in the dark, huddled and with their backs to the audience. At first Bud didn't trust this group with the suitcase containing his few precious belongings. As the evening unfolded, these struggling people provided true hospitality and earned Bud's, and our, admiration. The stage lighting set out the emotions of this story, with a dark, muted look. Spots turned to the eloquence of the characters. A random end note - we really liked how the strobe lights showed a train coming down the tracks, really conveying the weight and speed of the train.

- Katie and Beth, daughter/mother reviewing team

Community Review of Bud, Not Buddy

2008-02-17T14:12:00.002-06:00

When I originally set out to see Bud, Not Buddy my plan was to take my 13 year old son. I had heard about the play for ages 9+ and reviews had encouraged an even older audience. Come show day however, I found myself minus a teenager but with a very eager 7 year old. Not wanting to waste a ticket, I discussed with my 7 year old that this play may not be like others we had seen and he may get bored. We talked about props and that there would be a gun in the play… but it wasn’t real. I then prepared him on what my expectations were of him and figured if nothing else, he would have an opportunity to practice patience and being a good audience member. I have to say that we both thoroughly enjoyed Bud, Not Buddy. While some of the messages and underlying story line may have been advanced for younger children, it was very engaging for older children and adults on many different levels. My son has mentioned to me since then “Just like that play said, ‘When one door closes, another one opens’ ” so he too was able to take some messages from it. There was a fun and humorous element that balanced the serious story line that was taking place. There were multiple times I found myself smiling, and others when I started tearing up. While Bud was looking for his father, I think he also found that not all family is blood related. Some people become family through the experiences you share with them.

- Jocelyn

Review of Bud, Not Buddy by Caitlin, age 17

2008-02-05T11:09:00.000-06:00

I must start by saying that the Children’s Theatre’s newest production, Bud, Not Buddy, thoroughly impressed me. As an elementary student, I enjoyed Christopher Paul Curtis’s novel about a young boy with spunk and wit to spare and was glad to see that the Children’s Theatre did such a wonderful book justice. While the book is narrated by Bud, the actors in the production usually speak about their actions in the 3rd person (with the exception of Bud). I found this off-putting at first, but I soon realized it was really the only effective way to translate the story to the stage. The book’s most important events are portrayed in the play and the play still communicates the Depression-era details in costuming, set, etc. that made the novel so poignant. I found, for the most part, the characters and their actions to be believable. I must applaud the cast for doing such an amazing job handling the Shakespearean-esque stage directions, with one actor playing multiple characters. Nathan Barlow’s performance as Bud, I felt, really captured the essence and personality of the character. On another note, the set was meticulously assembled to both reflect the Depression-era landscape and serve as a multipurpose background for various scenes throughout the play. The detail of the urban building background worked well with the minimalist onstage set. I loved the use of the metal wire instruments and large floodlights as car headlights for props. I also enjoyed the play’s music. I felt the use of jazz fit well with the themes and setting of the play. As I watched the play, I felt joy, fear, sadness, and content along with Bud. I believe my ability to do this is due to the, again, wonderful performance by Nathan Barlow. The moments of humor came when Bud presented his “Rules and Things for Having a Funner Life and Making a Better Liar Out of Yourself”, in part to the ingenious use of a sports-style announcer. Overall, I heartily enjoyed the play and believed that the Children’s Theatre has created another outstanding production. As I left the theatre inspired by Bud’s infectious optimism, I felt as though, like Bud, another “door” had been opened for me. This time I have been introduced to a new theatre-going experience: engaging, innovative, and quality productions from the Children’s Theatre Company.

- Caitlin, 17

Jaqui, age 12 reviews Bud Not Buddy

2008-02-05T11:06:00.000-06:00

Did the show get across the big ideas of the book? How is it different? Determine the point of view of the show. Is it the same as the book?
It did get across the main idea for me because I read the book but if I did not read it I still probably would have got it. It is different because the book is more detailed. I think the point of view was that Bud was looking for his daddy and found his grandfather. No it is not the same as the book but it had all of the important parts of the book.

Were the characters and their actions believable? Was it easy to figure out what each character was motivated by (why did they choose to do the things they did)?
The characters actions were believable because they knew what they were doing and I think they even read the book because they said the same stuff that the characters did in the book. They choose the things they choose to do because they thought it would be the right action for what they were saying or doing.

Did the set add to the play? What did you like about the set/what didn’t you like?
Yes, the set did add to the play because if there was no set they would just be talking and you would not be able to visualize or see how it happened. I liked the fact that it gave it a vibe for the background. I did not like the background I am not trying to be mean but it kind-of freaked me out.

Did you like the music? Did it fit with the play?
Yeah I liked the music it was perfect for the mood - when they were sad they played sad music; when they were happy they played happy music. I did fit the mood, like I said sad - sad happy - happy.

What emotions did the play evoke? How did you feel while you were watching the play? Why do you think you felt that way?
The play evoked the emotions the character was feeling like at the end of the play and book I just wanted to cry but I didn’t. I felt whatever the character was feeling because they are acting the role very well. I felt that way because some parts such as when Herman found out his daughter is dead I just wanted to cry because I made a connection.

Did you enjoy the play? Were you engaged?
I enjoyed the play and was very excited to see it. It was different from the book but it was the same as the book. I was engaged, I was at the edge of my seat just waiting for parts for the book to appear in the play.

- Jaqui, 12

Armaan, age 9 and his mom Shefali review Bud, Not Buddy

2008-02-05T11:04:00.000-06:00

“Bud not Buddy” is a brilliantly staged performance with amazing attention to detail, cast partly in a narrative style reminiscent of the book yet uniquely different with each character adding his own personality to the play. The story, while being told largely from Bud’s point of view, was still able to present each character’s personality & conveyed the main idea of Bud’s courageous search for his father & his adventures along the way, the setbacks & the people he meets. It has the added element of showing life during the “Depression” & the racial undertones during that era.

The presentation was easy to follow even for those not familiar with the story. Bud is optimistic, brave & mature well beyond his 10 years with his self constructed list of rules “to have a funner life & make a better liar out of yourself”, his mother, though dead, is constantly in his thoughts & is gentle, loving, always guiding Bud to do the right thing, his grandfather-Herman.F. Calloway, a gruff & tough musician with a no-nonsense exterior but with a broken grieving heart, are all able to move you to tears as you watch the story unfold.

The sets were extremely creative & adaptable for the changing settings of the play using smoke & strobes in various scenes for a dramatic effect. The costumes evoked an old world nostalgia. We were totally captivated by the stellar performance & both my son & I thoroughly enjoyed the play.

- Armaan, age 9 and Shefali, age 40

Review of Bud, Not Buddy by Sharron, 6th grade teacher

2008-02-05T10:59:00.000-06:00

“Bud, Not Buddy” demonstrates the power of bringing award winning literature to the stage. This roughly two-hour production successfully captures the essence of Christopher Paul Curtis’ book from the authentic Depression era dialogue to the lovable characters. The lead actor, Nathan Barlow, commands the stage from the moment he sets foot on it as Bud Caldwell. His lines are delivered believably with emotion and voice. Some of his favorites, “you can kiss my wrist”, “shucks”, and “doggone it” brought lines from the book directly to the stage.

The play entertained and kept the audience quiet and engaged all the while conveying themes of belonging, the power of a dream, and our interdependence upon each other. The simple multi-level set represented the scarcity of the Depression and relied on the talent of the actors to tell this tale of one boy’s struggle to belong. The subtle history lesson woven into the play left children in the audience wanting to learn more about “riding the rails”, Jim Crow laws, and the Depression.

The play had a few surprises from the casting of 6-year-old Jerry to the delivery of Bud’s Rules and Things for Having a Funner Life and Making a Better Liar Out of Yourself. Another interesting twist is how the actors deliver their lines in full character and then go into a third person narrator role commenting on the character they play. This brought a sophistication to the play and a provided a nice surprise for the audience.

The play was entertaining for both children and adults. It was delightful, simple, thought provoking, and a fun experience. The Children’s Theatre Company brought humor and lightness to serious subjects and left the audience wanting more.

- Sharron, 6th Grade Teacher

Review of Bud, Not Buddy by Lisa and her children, ages 10 & 14

2008-02-01T14:51:00.000-06:00

“When a door closes another one opens”……such is the over-riding theme in Bud, Not Buddy, the story of a very rambunctious young boy on the search for his father.

The play was totally different than what I expected. This play is performed from Bud’s head and the characters, especially Bud, switch back and forth from talking in the first person to talking in the third person. It therefore is much more abstract than anticipated. While my 14 year old could follow it well, my 10 year old took some parts more literally than intended and some conversations just went over his head. My 10 year old was much more impressed with some of the special effects (i.e. strobe lights) and liked the story line about the mom…”because she was a loving mom like mine” (Awwwwww, what a nice boy) .

My daughter liked the story as well, but thought younger kids would have trouble following it. Also she said, sometimes it was hard to hear what the actors were saying due to the sound being low or muffled at times. I agreed with her on that part and missed several lines because of this. She said she would recommend it to her friends.

Overall though, the play is a great story. As an adult, it meant more to me, I think, as I understood all the abstract/metaphoric/third party references and appreciated the jazz music that drove the piece as bud’s search for his father went on.

The ending was inspirational and emotional at the same time. The young man who plays Bud is fabulous and holds the stage well (How did he learn all those lines…amazing!!) Worth seeing as a family with older children or as an adult who wants a fun, inspiring story.