Review: The Teddy Bears’ Picnic (Emerald City Theatre)

Review: The Teddy Bears’ Picnic (Emerald City Theatre)

The Teddy Bears’ Picnic

Written and Directed by Ernie Nolan
at EC’s Little Theatre, 2933 N. Southport (map)
thru Jan 5 | tickets: $7-$14   | more info

Check for half-price tickets


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Fun, interactive show for kids and parents alike

Emerald City Theatre presents

The Teddy Bears’ Picnic

Review by Patrick Dyer

Interactive theater aimed at children is a unique way to introduce them to this very unique art form. Many children’s theater productions incorporate puppetry, songs, and colorful characters to get the kids excited, but some go even further by involving the parents in the fun. Of course, this can be a challenge since these types of shows aren’t necessarily meant for the parents, but Emerald City Theatre’s The Teddy Bears’ Picnic is more than up to the challenge.

The Teddy Bears’ Picnic is about Mama Bear (Amanda Hartley) and Buddy Bear (Cameron Turner) preparing a little picnic out in the woods, inviting both children and their parents along. Ernie Nolan’s production has the clever idea of letting the kids and parents sit on little picnic blankets with baskets full of toys and props used throughout the performance as Hartley and Turner interact and play games with the families. Hartley’s character is sweet and motherly, making the environment even more friendly and wholesome for the kids. Turner is a talented puppeteer who works well with the kids and allows them to interact with his multiple puppets from Buddy Bear to fireflies to bumblebees. Both actors stay in character and keep the performance going at a steady pace.

So parents, if you want to introduce your kids to theater, The Teddy Bears’ Picnic is a fun and creative way to do so. I’m sure your kids will have a memorable time at this charming show, and my guess is you’ll enjoy yourselves too. (Special note: it’s a “shoe-free zone” so make sure you and your kids are wearing socks.)

Rating: ★★★

The Teddy Bears’ Picnic continues through January 5th at Emerald City’s Little Theatre, 2933 N. Southport (map), with performances Fridays and Sundays at 10am, Saturdays at 9am and 11:30am. Tickets are $7-$14, and are available by phone (773-529-2690) or online through PrintTixUSA.com (check for half-price tickets at Goldstar.com). More information at EmeraldCityTheatre.com. (Running time: 45 minutes, NO intermission)