BWW Reviews: Hale Academy's DOCTOR DOLITTLE, JR. is Refreshing

The Hale Academy for the Performing Arts at Hale Center Theater Orem is currently presenting DOCTOR DOLITTLE, JR. in a fun, refreshing youth production.

DOCTOR DOLITTLE, JR. (book, music, and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse) is based on the stories by Hugh Lofting and the Oscar-winning 1967 film. It follows the renowned animal doctor from his decision to learn to speak to animals in their own languages to his journey in search of the legendary Great Pink Sea Snail.

The Jr. version of the musical is understandably disjointed in parts, as it removes much plot and character development in order to keep the action under 90 minutes. This charming production proves that the full version, which has never been performed in Utah, deserves to be seen by local audiences. It is familiar and nostalgic because of the film, while at the same time brand new as a stage musical. The heartbreaking love triangle and sublime songs such as "At the Crossroads" and "After Today" (all missing from the Jr. version) elevate the uncut material to a true family show that both adults and children would love. The race is on for a regional premiere in this area. Will Hale Center Theater Orem take on the challenge?

This production, with savvy direction and choreography by David Smith, shows that this theatre is definitely up to the task of staging the full version. Some brilliant design elements from Tami Crandall (costumes), Cole McClure (lighting), Bobby Swenson (scenery), and Cody Hale and Nate Hale (projections) give hope for a more immersive historical and fantastical world in a potential full production. The puppets by Liz Meyers and Jeanette Meyers are delightfully realized and add fun and whimsy to the show.

Abrin Tinney as Doctor Dolittle provides a superbly acted, layered performance that is a joy to watch. He is truly a star in the making. Fiona Swenson as Emma Fairfax and Joseph Graul as Albert Blossom also sing and act wonderfully and add a great deal to the production. Their British accents are well executed and improve rather than hinder the dialogue. The rest of the ensemble of youth performers is energetic, capable, and entertaining in song, dance, and puppetry.

In addition to many youth theatre productions throughout the year, the Hale Academy for the Performing Arts also sponsors voice lessons and summer camps covering everything from Shakespeare to musical theatre to acting death scenes.

DOCTOR DOLITTLE, JR. plays through May 22, 2015. For tickets or more information about the Hale Academy, call the box office at 801-226-8600 or visit www.haletheater.org.

Photo Credit: Pete Widtfeldt. L-R Morgan Wilcock (Polynesia), Dane Doman (Tommy Stubins), Abrin Tinney (Doctor Dolittle), Fiona Swenson (Emma Fairfax), Nika Fazulayonov (Madeline Mugg).

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