[rating=4] Walking into the Broadway In Chicago Playhouse lobby was quite different from previous visits to the smaller, more intimate space as it was filled with youngsters, dressed in shades of Pink. In fact, moms, and grandmas ( as well as a few dads) were alos dressed in various shades of Pink- the favorite color of Pinkalicious Pinkerton, the heroine of the book of the same name by Victoria and Elizabeth Kann. This is the production recently staged by Emerald City ( to rave reviews) moved to Michigan Avenue from their home at The Apollo on Lincoln Avenue. As they do at their normal home, they begin in the lobby with interactive crafts for the kids to begin their experience with.This musical adaptation with music and lyrics by John Gregor is a fun-filled hour for kids , of all ages, under the skillful eye of director Ernie Nolan, whi is a leader in presenting live theater to kids. One of the keys to programs for young theater goers is keeping their interest alive and Nolan uses his actors to get the kids involved. If children enjoy their first theatrical experience, they will want more, and that is a key to their exposure to the arts.
Pinkalicious is a charming story and Lara Mainier is a pure delight to watch onstage. She had a powerful voice with great range and a bubbly, energetic personality that makes us want to lover her ( even when she “breaks the rules”). In the story, after eating too many pink cupcakes, she catches something called “Pinkititis”. She turns pink from head to toe. The doctor recommends no more pink- in fact only green foods or this could get even worse. While it is bubbly and fun with some wonderful songs and super choreography, like all of Emerald City’s productions, there are messages hidden in the theatrics of the production. The main one of course, is eating healthy. Another message is “how much is too much”? And yet another, is about sharing and friendship as well as listening to parents. Parents also can learn from this show that as busy as they may be, they need to find some “fun time” for their family, in particular with their children. These topics will make great lunchtime or dinnertime conversations between parents and their children, making this theatrical experience also a learning experience.
This powerful and as previously stated “energetic” cast is composed of Patrick Byrnes as Mr. Pinkerton, Rachel Klippel as Mrs. Pinkerton, the very funny Mark Kasten as brother Peter, Julia P. Gordon as “Pink”s” best friend Allison, Ashley Braxton as Dr. Wink ( and others) and a strong ensemble player, Alex Ring filling out the cast. Nathan R. Roher’s costumes are definately “Pinkalicious” and the lighting by Nic Jones makes the set ( Ernie Nolan, who also handled the choreography) work as well. There are some perfectly adorable songs and the puppets ( pink cupcakes, what else?) and props by D.J.Reed makes for a very enjoyable hour on Michigan Avenue.
This production will run through September 3rd at The Broadway Playhouse located in Water Tower Place ( 175 E. Chestnot) with performances on Thursdays,Fridays,Saturdays and Sundays at 10 a.m.
Tickets are $16-$22 and are available at any of the Broadway In Chicago theater box offices, the Broadway in Chicago kiosk located at Water Tower Places, by phone at 800-775-2000, at all Ticketmaster outlets and online at www.BroadwayInChicago.com
To learn more about Emerald City Theatre and their upcoming schedule of great ( and educational) shows for “family” visit www.emeraldcitytheatre.com
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