THREE FAIRY GODMOTHERS
by T.E. Klunzinger
Shows for children, if written right and performed with spirit, never really lose their luster and ability to charm. This is such a show, currently presented through Sunday in LCC’s Outdoor Amphitheater at 7 p.m.
Although the script by Jerry Twedt has been around for over 50 years, one can imagine the legendary Stan Gill seeing this as a youth and thinking, “I can do that” (which he did). As directed by Paige Tufford, this show is light on plot but is fun, colorful and performed with gusto.
Having reached the mandatory retirement age of 800, the eponymous godmothers (Rachel Steffens, Olivia Hines, Edward Heldt) have been relieved of their wands and stumble into the kingdom of a blustering king (Quinn Kelly) whose annoying daughter Dulcie (Jo Schwitzer) is facing imminent marriage to the oafish Org (Daryth Lennox), son of the deliciously wicked Barabela (Keeley Robinson). Prince Royal (Caleb Tracy) shows up and helped by the three ladies, saves the day. And that’s about it.
The fun comes from the broad playing style, frequent physicality and lack of audibility problems that sometimes plague outdoor theater. The costumes by Chelle Peterson are a particular delight.
While there’s never a lot of opportunity for character nuance in a kids’ show, the versatile Edward Heldt – who last month played various masculine superheroes – is completely believable as the dithering godmother Hoplandria. (OK, the names could be better.)
Given that the show is free, refreshments are handy and the playing time including intermission is only about 70 minutes, this is perfect summer-evening entertainment for all family members, particularly the younger ones. Bring a camp chair if you don’t appreciate the pleasures of sitting on concrete, which I found quite satisfactory. (In case of rain, the show will be downstairs in Gannon Commons.)