In this installment, concerns revolve around Christopher Robin (Alec Baronne) proposing an escape from the “definite” decision by “them” to send him to the dreaded “Education,” which is probably in Africa. It does seem advisable, however, considering the spelling errors on his note about the “Mergency Meeting.” Eeyore the donkey (Bailey de Silva) moans and drones about standing out in the cold field at 3 o’clock in the morning - so, encouraged by the endearing, perky Piglet (Annie White) Winnie the Pooh (Ayden Soupal) sets plans afoot to build Eeyore the “house at Pooh corner” — which is architecturally challenged by the invasion of an energetic, bouncing “Tigger” (Abby Murray) who also wreaks havoc on Owl’s (Fiona Breen) penthouse apartment. Rabbit (Kendall Repins) tries to get everyone organized for the cleanup with limited success. Kanga (Amelia Villhauer) frets about the cleanliness and safety of cute and curious Roo. (Addy Vanderbur)
The young actors did well, but sometimes fell into that common “well-memorized” cadence where we don’t quite believe the sentiment expressed, and maybe lose a few words in the translation. Notable exceptions were Alec as Christopher Robin and Annie as Piglet who seemed to “get into it” more than some others.
Director Liz Parker commandeered a large cast including extra forest creatures, all beautifully costumed as a wide variety of animals. The set was simple but effective, with the two-story tree, and useful “thinking rock”. Due to that rock’s location and the frequent “meetings” there, seats on the audience-left side might provide a better point of view than down front where we were. (General seating, by the way; choose your own seat.)
This charming tale is short and sweet, about an hour and 15 minutes - with nothing scarier than a bouncy, fun-loving Tigger — great for the little ones.
Pooh continues tomorrow (Sunday) at 2 and next week 7pm Friday, 2 & 4:40 pm Saturday and 2pm Sunday $5/$7
www.riverwalktheatre.com