Review: GOODNIGHT MOON is Delightful Entertainment

GOODNIGHT MOON is the latest children's show playing at Zach Theatre. Based on the 1947 book by Margaret Wise Brown, this iconic children's story was adapted by Chad Henry and premiered at Seattle Children's Theatre in 2007. Built upon the original story, the show follows the bedtime adventures of Bunny (Nicholas Kier) in the Great Green Room. In this magical room, imagination brings inanimate objects to life and keeps Bunny wide-awake. There are kittens with mittens, a cat with a fiddle, and a poor cow trying desperately to jump over the moon. As the clock ticks, Bunny is whisked away on fantastic adventures filled with lively songs and dances. Will all the fun keep the young rabbit awake all night?

As Bunny, Nicholas Kier gives an adorable face to the wide-eyed wonderment of a child. Whether he is playing musical chairs with bears or deciding if he's ever going to eat that bowl of mush, Kier's performance is filled with energy and child-like enthusiasm. As the ensemble, Paul Sanchez, Jessica O'Brien, Allen Robertson, and Lia Denah Treviño aid Kier in the storytelling and provide the perfect launch/crash pad for his high-strung antics. Favorite ensemble roles include Lia Denah Treviño as Mouse, Jessica O'Brien as the Old Lady, and Paul Sanchez as the Cat with the Fiddle.

Direction by Abe Reybold is clear, concise, and kid-friendly. The show's full-steam-ahead pace never seems frantic and even in its harried moments feels naturally motivated. Musical director, Allen Robertson keeps things upbeat supplying the show's musical accompaniment while also performing as part of the ensemble. Robertson proves to be a crowd favorite during the show providing hilarious sound effects and warmly encouraging the young audience to be attentive and engaged.

The Great Green Room first envisioned by Clement Hurd over seventy years ago jumps off the page thanks to the show's technical elements. Stephanie Busing provides brilliant work in the scenic design. From Bunny's cantankerous bed to the pictures on the wall that spring to life, every whimsical detail is well conceived. The well-crafted set is accompanied by video and lighting design by Busing and Andrew McIntyre, respectively, that works to create magical constellations in the night sky and bring the titular character of the Moon to life. Costumes by Christina Montgomery add to the whimsy with bright colors and fun patterns while also providing functional pieces for the fast-moving actors.

GOODNIGHT MOON is delightful children's entertainment at its best and is sure to please fans of the original story. Brown's beloved tale is beautifully reimagined by Zach Theatre and provides non-stop fun the whole family will enjoy. Be sure to check out the petting zoo on your way into the theatre for some up-close interaction with your child's favorite furry or feathery friends.

GOODNIGHT MOON is now playing at Zach Theatre's Kleberg Stage until May 27th. Show times on Saturday at 11:00am and 2:00pm and Sundays at 2:00pm.

Recommended for ages 3 and Up.

Approx. running time: 75 minutes with one 15-minute intermission.

Tickets:

Youth - $18

Full Price - $24

*Group pricing available.

*$20 Student Rush tickets available at the Box Office one hour before curtain with valid Student I.D.

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