Review: CURIOUS GEORGE & THE GOLDEN MEATBALL Serves Up Fun

I was curious to see The Rose Performing Arts production of CURIOUS GEORGE & THE GOLDEN MEATBALL, mostly because of the cast. Anna Jordan (most recently seen in Brigit Saint Brigit's THE CRIPPLE OF INISHMAAN, and J. Isaiah Smith (Omaha Community Playhouse's PARADE) are cast as Curious George and the Man in the Yellow Hat. They don't disappoint. Jordan's uncanny ability to make us understand what she is saying even though she is speaking in "monkey" is impressive. So is the entire lineup of actors who sing and cavort through this extremely colorful enactment of the popular children's book series, "Curious George."

CURIOUS GEORGE & THE GOLDEN MEATBALL tells the story of a monkey, his pal in yellow, and their adventures as they cook up a mean meatball in the Golden Meatball contest in Rome. Based on the books by Margret and H.A. Rey, the play is brought to stage by Jeremy Desmon, book and lyrics, and John Kavanaugh, music. This is a tale of friendship between Chef Pisghetti (played by golden voiced Aaron Mann), his assistant Netti (Jessica Logue), some delightful delivery people, and the highly entertaining cowboy competitor Phinneas (Al Kroeten) who has developed the Meatball-O-Matic 9000 designed to fire meatballs out like baseballs to those who truly enjoy fast food.

Director Stephanie Jacobson says, "What draws me to the story is that George and his friends are some of the most selfless people..." Friends helping friends is the underlying message of the story, with some additional advice about how to return to sender, enjoy the moment rather than rush through time, and solve mysteries by studying the clues.

Erin Bragg's costumes are rich in color and texture. Scenic designer Nevena Prodanovic's set brings 2D cartoon illustrations to life-size. Music director Jerry Brabec and choreographer Sue Gillespie Booton keep the music beating with beautiful harmonies and moving feet. Fancy dance maneuvers in "Dash of Joy" are especially fun. The sound is a bit muffled in the back and Smith's mic could be turned up a notch, but overall, this is a bright, lively production that will entertain children, even those monkeying around in the audience.

One last note: wouldn't it be fun to combine a trip to the theater with a dinner at say..."Spaghetti Works" or the new restaurant in Blackstone District, "Meatball?" I doubt the Meatball-O-Matic 9000 will be firing out the meatballs, but who knows? Maybe they are even made with Chef Pisghetti's secret ingredient?

CURIOUS GEORGE & THE GOLDEN MEATBALL plays at the Rose Theatre through May 6.

Photo Credit: J. Isaiah Smith and Anna Jordan by Alex Myhre

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