Review: Lester’s Dreadful Sweaters (Lifeline Theatre)

Charming and delightful

When it comes to children's theater, Lifeline knows what they're doing. Lester's Dreadful Sweaters is my first foray into Lifeline's KidSeries, but if this charming and delightful production is any indication, the company provides young children with a fitting introduction to theater. Lester's Dreadful Sweaters is a sweet and fast-moving musical adaptation of K.G. Campbell's book. Pleasing to kids and adults alike, it's a lovely way to spend an weekend morning.

Little Lester (Sam Button-Harrison) likes things just so. He keeps alphabetized checklists, his hobbies include sorting laundry, and his knee socks are always pulled up and coordinated with his sweater vests and bow ties. But when Lester's Cousin Clara (Elizabeth Levy) - who may or may not actually be a relative - enters the picture, Lester's ordered world is turned upside down with a side of pom-poms. Not only is Clara a very fast knitter, she thrills in unconventional patterns and embellishments, and takes the shape of a normal sweater as a suggestion rather than a pattern. Clara gives Lester sweater after sweater, and Lester doesn't want to hurt her feelings, but they're just not his style. What's a perfectionist to do?

Scriptwriter Aly Renee Amidel, who also co-wrote the lyrics with Julie Tallarida, keeps the dialogue light and fun with the occasional aside for the adults in the crowd. Scott Tallarida's score is lively and clever, packing a Disney-like punch. While I haven't read the original book, I can safely assume that its spirit has been well-preserved in this Lester's Dreadful Sweaters . The kids in the theater, many of whom were quite young, were equal parts giggly and riveted, their eyes shining and their occasional commentary short but insightful. Director Heather Curriekeeps the pacing quick but not frenetic, with a deep understanding of and appreciation for the KidSeries audience. Amidel's costumes are both artistic and functional - four of the five actors play multiple roles, and Amidel accurately conveys children's book illustrations while ensuring actors can easily move and change. Alan Donahue's scenic design is sweetly storybook-reminiscent, all fine lines, soft colors, and two-dimensional props the actors use with aplomb.

The cast is energetic and engaging, skilled at singing, dancing and storytelling with childlike glee. The performance I reviewed featured understudy as Lester's Cousin Clara and his friend Enid - her bouncy spirit fit in incredibly well with the regular cast members. Amanda Roeder displays excellent physical comedy and timing as Lester's mother, and , as Lester's father, would be right at home on Sesame Street. Chris Vizurraga has some funny moments as Lester's teacher Mr. Twist, who reveals a surprise about himself to his students. And Button-Harrison is a true children's theater standout, taking the audience through Lester's journey with boundless curiosity and optimism.

Lester's Dreadful Sweaters is a satisfying treat for families. This parable of open-mindedness and creativity has a great message, and this winning musical adaptation is sure to be a favorite. Head to Lifeline on a weekend with your favorite little one in tow.

Lester's Dreadful Sweaters continues through April 24th at Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood (map), with performances Saturdays and Sundays at 11am & 1pm. Tickets are $15, and are available by phone (773-761-4477) or online through PrintTixUSA.com (check for half-price tickets at Goldstar.com ). More information at LifelineTheatre.com. (Running time: 60 minutes without intermission)

behind the scenes

Heather Currie (director), (stage manager), Aly Renee Amidel (costume design), Alan Donahue (scenic & properties design), Diane D. Fairchild (lighting design), Kate Kamphausen (assistant costume design), Laura McKenzie (music director), Eli Van Sickel (sound designer), Suzanne Plunkett (photos)

Tags: 16-0360, Alan Donahue, Aly Renee Amidei, Aly Renee Amidel, Amanda Roeder, Chicago Theater, children's theater, Chris Vizurraga, Diane D. Fairchild, Dustin Rothbart, Eli Van Sickel, Elizabeth Levy, Heather Currie, Julie Tallarida, K.G. Campbell, Kate Kamphausen, Kate Reed, Laura McKenzie, Lauren Whalen, Lifeline Theatre, Mara Dale, post, Sam Button-Harrison, Scott Sawa, Scott Tallarida, Suzanne Plunkett, William Marquez

Category: 2016 Reviews, Children's Theatre, Lauren Whalen, Lifeline Theatre, Musical, New Work, World Premier