Always a must-read book for children, Charlotte’s Web illustrates the value of true friendship and what it really means to have a friend and be a friend.
Now adults and children alike have the chance to see the stage version of the E. B. White classic adapted for theater by Joseph Robinette and presented by the Long Beach Playhouse as part of its Summer Youth Theatre program.
Terra Taylor Knudson directs the popular fable about an extraordinary pig, Wilber, who befriends an even more extraordinary spider named Charlotte. As Charlotte teaches young Wilber about loyalty and trust, Wilber never imagines that Charlotte’s friendship will result in the ultimate sacrifice.
Knudson’s talented cast of 12 features several children, all of whom perform their roles extremely well. Young actress Hayley Jackson gives Wilber a wonderfully likeable personality. From the start, when Wilber was nothing more than the runt of his litter, Jackson’s expressive interpretation gave the piglet heart and a willful charm.
Janine Fry’s down-to-earth Charlotte treated her loyalty to her new friend as a given, something that you just do regardless of your ability to choose. It was a subtle message that I found thought-provoking and uplifting.
Madison Rayne Miller, though quite young judging from her size, took on the roles of the lamb and the County fair judge and handled both with skill. She wowed me with her mastery of her many lines, as well as her excellent timing.
The character Fern, a little girl who begs her father not to kill the runt of the piglet litter, receives an excellent and very impassioned portrayal by Karoline Ribak.
I also especially liked George Torres’ Templeton the rat, whose self-serving nature and funky demeanor are good for a few laughs, as well as some uh-ohs. White’s inclusion of this less-than-admirable character adds realism to his wonderful story and also some needed contrast to the more well-behaved characters.
Other excellent performances are given by Andrew Martin, Melissa Marzigliano, Mary Acuna, Walter Mangandi, Miguel Solorio, Mitchell Nunn and Jane Nunn.
Costume designer Donna Fritsche scores a home run with Charlotte’s spider costume, with its attractive look and ingenious moving appendages. I got a kick out of Templeton’s comical get-up, as well as Wilber’s pig “suit.” Goose and farmer costumes were also very well done.
I assume Charlotte’s changing web was the handy work of lighting designer Jesse GrothOlson. Good job!
The Playhouse doesn’t produce children’s plays very often, and Charlotte’s Web is such a winning choice. If you have children (and maybe even if you don’t), this excellent production is a great opportunity for a family outing. I recommend taking advantage of it.
Charlotte’s Web continues on the Long Beach Playhouse Mainstage through Sept. 1. General admission tickets are $15 for adults 15 and up, and $10 for children 14 and under. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., with Saturday and Sunday matinees on Aug. 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 and 26 at 2 p.m.
Call (562) 494-1014 for reservations and information. Special group rates and benefit performances are available by calling the business office at (562) 494-1014 between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday thru Friday.
Tickets are also available online at www.lbph.com.
