A Year in 90 minutes, give or take

Last night I had the extreme good fortune to see a wonderful production at Theatre IV at the Shops at Willow Lawn called "A Year with Frog and Toad" Yes, I know I am 48, and this is a kid's show, but it was one of the best and most entertaining shows I've seen this year. It is certainly at the top of my list of all the "kid's shows" I've seen. From the very first moment that we hear the dulcet tones of the "birds" - dressed like flappers ( I just got that when I typed it) and their 20's zoot-suited companion until the bows, it's a joy! No one could have picked two finer actors than Robert Throckmorton and Chris Stewart to play "Frog" and "Toad" respectively. Their friendship is real and warm, and they compliment each other beautifully. The three actors that support them are amazing in their own moments to shine whether playing birds, snails, turtles, mice, squirrels or moles. Their dancing and singing is spot on, and I pretty much forgot I was watching a "kid's show". So many theaters make the mistake of playing "over-the-top" to kids which makes it unbearable for the adult who is accompanying the child. Not the case with "Frog and Toad" There were several children in the audience last night, and all seemed to be totally engrossed in the production. The music is great! (My 19 year old made a comment that she would like to have the soundtrack on her iPod) and the choreography is imaginative and fun. The set is not complicated but works perfectly for the production. I especially liked the turntable effect of the houses and the hole in the floor. One other thing that makes this show mesmerizing is the gorgeous lighting design by Joe Doran. There are moments that are absolutely breathtaking. I found myself Ooing and Ahing more than once at the visual created by the lights.
The house was small last night, very small, and I think that's a shame! This show is not to be missed, and it is well worth the ticket price. I know it's the holiday season and money is tight for everyone, but make a trip to this show a Christmas present to your family or even yourself. You'll be glad you did!