Magic Tree House: The Musical - Warner Theater, Connecticut, USA 2007

Real Magic at the Warner Theater

by Nancy McMillan, The Register Citizen

The magic of theatre is alive and well at the Warner Theatre in Torrington with the world premiere of Magic Tree House: The Musical, the adaptation of the best selling book series by Mary Pope Osbourne. The opening performance received a rightfully rapturous response last Saturday night.

Ms. Obsourne's books rank in sales volume with Harry Potter. For this production, based on "Christmas in Camelot", book and lyrics were written by her husband, Will Osbourne, with music and lyrics by composer Randy Courts.

From the moment I sat down I was swept into the world of Annie and Jack on their quest to break the evil spell over Camelot. There is a special magic that musical theatre can produce, and this show delivers that magic hands down.

The scenery is a key player in casting that spell, with credit to scenic designer Alexander Dodge. The way that the scene changes are done everything is in motion so the story moves along seamlessly as if turning the pages of a storybook. The action never stops and theatre-goers are on the edge of their seats.

For instance, as Annie and Jack climb over the Iron Gate, it rotates so they face the audience as if we are in the Otherworld, a nice bit of theatrical subtlety. The stage darkens as Annie and Jack approach the Invisible Door, while the Crystal Cave swings silently and errily into place.

The appearance of four fantastic dragons (despite visible puppeteers) in vibrant colors is the visual highlight of the second act. Although their anger is enhanced by sound effects and stroble lights, they do not seem to be as threatening as the fairy dancers who draw the three knights and Jack into an endless exhausting dance. Yet the dragons are memerizing to watch and listen to, as are all the effects.

Composer Randy Courts has penned music that matches the story perfectly. Catchy melodies and memorable lyrics create show tunes you'll be humming the next day.

My favorites are the clever and funny "What's So Great About Magic?", the sweet "What Would I Do Without You?", and "Remember and Imagine" whose message goes down easy, like the message of the Magic Tree House books.

Although the instrumentals are pre-recorded, all the vocals are sung live. A light and playful orchestration never overwhelms the singers. Several of the cast members, including Donna Bullock, are part of the original soundtrack recording. The inclusion of the McArdle Schools dancers is an authentic and audience pleasing touch.

The cast was up to the task and excitement of opening night, perhaps inspired by the luninous Obie Award winning Donna Bullock (Morgan), a veteran of stage and television. With a large cast it is difficult to comment on more than a few actors. Katie Brunetto (Annie) played the innocent and brave herione well; her voice is strong if sometimes a bit nasal. Matthew Martin's (Jack) performance was convincing and his smooth theatrical voice carried his solos.

It is a pleasure to see the pairing of Marcia Maslo (Guinevere) and Bif Carrington (King Arthur) again. Her rich soprano voice soars and his performance is deepened by his expressive singing.

Is the Q&A afterwards, Ms Bullock summed up the event. "There are theatre angels and they were here tonight. It felt like we just floated through the evening."

Kudos to director Joe Harmston, who has poured great energy and commitment into creating this production. It is easy to imagine this show ending up on Broadway. Puppet Designer Mary Brehmer bring imagination and creativity to the puppers; costume designer Sarah Iams provides costumes whose rich colors and fabrics draw us into the world of Camelot. Hundreds are involved in the production company and all their efforts pay off.

How fortunate we are to have the world premiere of a best-selling book series presented at the Warner, where is has found a welcome home. After the show Mary Pope Osbourne said, "I've had a stomach ache for three days. Now I can rest." And a well earned rest it will be too. Congratulations, Ms Osbourne.

This weekend go to the Warner for eye popping and stunning entertainment. Any child who loved the books will adore the musical, and even adults unfamiliar with the series will fall under the spell of this production.

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