“Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins” reviewed by Frank Meccia

Highly Recommended ****  On the first night of Hanukkah, a weary traveler named Hershel of Ostropol eagerly approaches a village, where plenty of latkes and merriment should warm him. But when he arrives not a single candle is lit.

A band of frightful goblins has taken over the synagogue, and the villagers cannot celebrate at all! Hershel vows to help them. And so our saga begins!

A magical story told by a traveling group of actors trying to find a town to celebrate Hanukkah. Led by Hershel portrayed by Morgan Lavenstein who did a wonderful job of captivating the audience with her storytelling. All the actors play different roles as they put on the show with such zest and enthusiasm. This is a production for all ages. The puppetry and dancing will keep the young ones mesmerized as they get into this 70-minute show.  By the end  of the show ,you will learn the song to sing every time you spin the dreidel.

This is a production of Strawdog Theatre Company and they are putting it on at Rivendell Theatre. In the Jewish world, there are many traditions! In the theater world there are also many traditions! At this time of year, one expects “A Christmas Carol”, “It’s A Wonderful Life” and perhaps “The Snow Queen”. Now, Strawdog has added it’s tradition, “Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins ( based on the book by Eric Kimmel) adapted by Michael Dailey with music and lyrics by Jacob Combs. This production is finely directed by Hannah Todd with musical direction by Ricky Harris.

Performances are  Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. thru December 12th with a special performance at 7:30 p.m. on December 10th.

The puppetry (Caitlin McLeod and Foiles) is unique and will have the little ones trying to figure things out.  The show is heartfelt and loving and children of all ages will find it pleasurable.

Tickets are FREE! Yes, they are free, but you do have to  visit www.strawdog.org to make sure you get in.

The theatre is the Rivendell Theatre at 5779 N. Ridge Ave. Free parking is a block away at Senn High School. The show plays till Dec 12. Saturday and Sunday times are 1pm and 4pm. And the price is free. Donations are taken at the theatre. Everyone wears a mask, and they require vaccinations for all 12 and up. Or proof of a negative PCR or rapid Covid test.

For more info on this show and this company go to www.strawdog.org

To find out what others are saying, visit www.theatreinchicago.com , go to Review Round-Up and click at “Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins”