BWW JR: FRECKLEFACE STRAWBERRY THE MUSICAL- She's Ba-ack!

It's official.  Julianne Moore's polka-dotted optimist is back in New York after a successful run at New World Stages.  She's been gone since last Spring and we've missed her rosy cheeks and crimson curls.  It's been a year since my daughter and I first saw the musical to which all other children's musicals would be compared.  Click HERE to read about our experience with this funny, quirky story that carries a weighty message of anti-bullying and self-acceptance. 

This time, "Strawberry" and her friends have moved a bit further Off-Broadway to Manhattan Movement and Arts Center, Rose Caiola's 60^th Street studio and theatre complex that houses the prestigious Manhattan Youth Ballet and is home to some of the best family theatre in town including "Pinkalicious" and "The Amazing Max and the Box of Interesting Things."   Caiola, in addition to her role as Founder and Executive Artistic Director of MMAC, is the Co-Book Writer, Conceiver and Producer of "Freckleface Strawberry".

The show plays differently in this new space.  While New World Stages is one of the best Off-Broadway houses in town, there is a more intimate feel at MMAC that lends itself to a young audience.  The first time I saw "Freckleface" I thought the show would be best for kids ages five through ten.  I'd skew that a bit younger now.  My eight year old still loved it, but I think my three year old would have had a great time, too.

If your kid is into autographs (mine aren't), stick around after the show to meet Strawberry and her pals.  They can always be found in the lobby, happy to meet their fans and pose for a picture.

GET TO THE POINT, MOM!

• The hit musical based on Julianne Moore's books about self-acceptance and tolerance for others is back at Manhattan Movement and Arts Center.
• Runs just over an hour.
• Best for ages three through ten.
• For more information, including ticket prices and schedule, check the show's website: http://www.frecklefacethemusical.com/

Erin Leigh Peck is a New York based actor, writer and mother. She has performed on and off Broadway, in regional theatre and on tour, in films and on television. She most recently appeared Off-Broadway in The Toxic Avenger Musical and can often be seen on television in various commercials. Erin's play Mother of Mine is a contemporary 'dramedy' about pregnancy, parenthood and postpartum. She is the proud and busy mother of two extremely awesome kids. Please visit her web site, www.ErinLeighPeck.com.

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