Snow White
Written and Directed by Ernie Nolan
at Apollo Theater, 2450 N. Lincoln (map)
thru May 20 | tickets: $13-$16 | more info
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Snow White done right

Emerald City Theatre presents
Snow White as Performed
by Professor TJ Barker’s Troupe of Theatricals
Review by Lauren Whalen
The story of Snow White is a very adaptable one, with interpretations more numerous than the apples that play a pivotal role in the narrative. Acclaimed children’s playhouse Emerald City Theatre puts a new spin on the classic tale, using a play-within-a-play structure to maximize the delight of its youngest viewers while keeping the elder folk entertained. Snow White as Performed by Professor TJ Barker’s Troupe of Theatricals is an exuberant treat of a fairy tale, not to be missed.

As with each Emerald City show, Snow White carries a lesson for families and classrooms: the skill of problem solving. The education doesn’t detract from the entertainment, however: there’s always something to see, to laugh at, to wonder. Writer and director Nolan makes the most of the Apollo Theater aisles, transforming the space into a playground for the eager actors to run, jump and engage. Excellent production values elevate Snow White to an even more professional level: Nathan Rohrer’s sweet and simple costumes give an old-timey feel while still allowing for copious physical movement. DJ Reed’s whimsical props (most notably a stuffed cat named Luciano) enhance the production’s sense of fun, while Ken Sprouls’ puppets conjure the wacky, lovable spirit of Jim Henson.
With their wide eyes, game faces and unbridled enthusiasm, the cast of Snow White are in a class by themselves. Playing multiple roles, expertly wielding puppets and tinkling away on musical instruments, they don’t miss a line, a step or a note. What’s lovely about Snow White is its easy way with children: the characters interact with the young audience without alienating the parents (or theater critics who might prefer not to be involved). They teach without preaching and emote without screeching, and most kid-oriented entertainment could learn a thing or two.
Emerald City prides itself not only on top-quality productions but also passing their artistic gifts to the next generation of actors, directors and theater enthusiasts. Snow White successfully achieves these goals: with every trilling sing-along and chirpy delivery, TJ Barker’s Troupe of Theatricals leave kids and grown-ups alike with genuine smiles and (hopefully) a newfound or renewed passion for the arts. To paraphrase the brutally honest mirror owned by the wicked queen of a stepmother, Emerald City Theatre’s Snow White is truly the fairest of them all.
Rating: ★★★½
Snow White as Performed by Professor TJ Barker’s Troupe of Theatricals continues through May 20th at Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln (map). Tickets start at $16 for adults and $13 for children, and are available by phone (773-935-6100) or online at TicketMaster.com (check for half-price tickets at Goldstar.com). More information, and a complete performance schedule, at EmeraldCityTheatre.com. (Running time: 1 hour with no intermission)
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