When you think “children’s theater”, do you cringe? If you feel like theater for kids is something that you have to suffer through just to give your little ones taste of the arts, then you are in for a real treat at The Arden Theatre Co. My 5 year old daughter and I had the distinct pleasure of attending opening night of The Borrowers last week and we give it two enthusiastic thumbs up.
I was absolutely blown away by the caliber of the performance, set, props, costumes, story line and music – the whole package! Moreover, my 5 year old daughter was engaged in a two-hour show which prompted her to ask questions, care about the characters, wonder how it all works, all while hearing a positive message about girl power, growing up, and life as a refugee in a foreign land.
My daughter laughed out loud at the funny parts, clutched my arm when she worried for the characters’ safety, asked a million questions throughout the show and generally had a fantastic time. I was particularly pleased with the multi-cultural cast of characters: Bi Jean Ngo, who plays Arrietty, is of Vietnamese origin. The boy, played by Delanté G. Keys, is African American. A diverse cast really lends itself to the underlying theme of the story: trying to find your place in a world that’s not your own.
In the words of director Whit MacLaughlin, “The beauty of the story of the Borrowers is how real it is. And how fantastical–at the same time. Ripped from the news and a complete fairy tale.”
If you’re like us and don’t have an enormous budget for family outings to the theater, you’ll be pleased to know about Target two-for-one tickets so your whole family can enjoy the show at half price. Which leaves some money to spare for one of the numerous classes, camps or workshops on acting, set design, playwriting and more for ages pre-k through high school. I am trying to decide between The Borrowers Acting Class and The Borrowers Costume Design Class for my kindergartener. She wants to do both! My husband and I met doing theater in Philadelphia, so it comes as no surprise that our daughter has been bit by the theater bug!
Run, don’t walk, to The Arden Theatre Co to experience the magic. Don’t take my word for it – have a listen to Tori’s take on “The Borrowers”. (Spoiler alert!)
Hi, I’m Alison: mom, yogi, doctoral student, and nature lover. I try to bring my kids up witnessing the wonders of movement and nature-- in our backyard or the many wonderful neighborhood parks. I hope to share my love of yoga and getting outdoors with you and your family!
What a great review you gave. You captured everything that was great about the night and have inspired me to get writing on my own review.
Thanks, Jennifer! Tori is *still* talking about The Borrowers. The whole experience has really had an effect on her!
Now get writing, girl!