Review . . .
'Pinocchio,' a children's classic at Timber Lake
By Sue Langenberg
Timber Lake Playhouse brings its Magic Owl Children's Theatre cast to perform classic "Pinocchio" this week.
As if there is not enough of a dizzying schedule for the summer stock theatre to gear up and take down six other extravaganzas, there are two
more children's theatre events, "Pinocchio" and "Rapunzel." The classic stories are on tap to nourish the souls of area youngsters by providing an
exceptional opportunity to appreciate a live theatrical experience. There is a charming, intimate house where wonderful things may happen! There might be a
chase down the aisles, an unforgettable song or a scary or bewitching character.
Granted that children's theatre these days may have been one-upped by the digital and instant technology age that powers various cartoon networks
and whatever television monsters and graphics can provide. That's where the live theatre experience is even more of a special treat. As our childhood menu
of fables, tales, poetry and everything else that made us culturally astute changes venue, we still treasure live magic.
"Pinocchio," in its four performances may prove to be the spark that gets some youngster started on a road to various stage inspirations. The
classic creation of the story in its original 19th century moral purpose had much to offer. But it is timeless in its message. It is a combination of, "Be careful
what you wish for," and "Liar, liar, pants on fire" and a lot of "what-ifs" in between. The subtle message is enhanced by goofy and eccentric characters that
take the stage.
Originally penned by Carlo Collodi in the late 19th century, the fictional character was born in a little-known Italian village. It seemed that the
piece of wood was alive and wanted to live, but not as a table leg. It was given to wood carver Geppetto who had other ideas about making the wood into a
doll. The doll, Pinocchio, is no angel and every part that was carved seemed to rebel, especially the nose. As soon as it learned to walk, it ran out the door.
So the misadventures begin and the tale takes many twists and turns to reach an abundance of moral lessons. Hundreds of revisions in hundreds
of languages keep the tale alive with much intellectual banter. What remains clear is that the action, characters and good versus evil remain to entertain
all ages.
The lively show is directed by choreographer James Beaudry, a regular TLP asset. Among Beaudry's talents for musicals and plays is the ability
to motivate actors and motivate quickly. These children's treats are rehearsed and produced with nearly instant success.
The TLP actors this season have so deftly demonstrated performance craft and professionalism in the first three shows that telling the tale
"Pinocchio" will be a treat to behold. Wood carver Geppetto is played by David Herr whose admirable versatility will thread the story with much energy. Pinocchio
is played by energetic Adam Fane, Antonio by Jake Bollman, Lampwick by Thomas Stewart, Mr. Fire Eater by Carl Hendin and mysterious coachman
by Kyle Szen.
And, of course, a blue fairy (Kaci Scott), cricket (Sainty Reid), Harlequin (Melissa Fitzpatrick) and Columbine (Jessica Dyer) are necessary
characters for the fun adventure. Others in the ensemble will appear and disappear quickly.
Bring everyone to an afternoon event to Timber Lake Playhouse to see "Pinocchio." All matinees July 7, 9, 10 and 11 at 2 p.m. A real treat is when
the cast in costume greets the children afterwards. The Mt. Carroll boonies are a hop, skip and a jump to 8215 Black Oak Road. Call the box office at
(815) 244-2035 or www.timberlakeplayouse.org for tickets, group rates and more information.
