This is SOME Show!

A review by: Marianne Dell'Aquila

Sometimes, a play has the ability to grab hold of your heart, make you laugh, and then tug at your heartstrings again in one fell swoop. This production magic occurs when each piece of the puzzle is able to fit together symbiotically to create an enchanting theatre experience. Dcp theatre’s production of Charlotte’s Web does just that!

This version of the classic tale is based on the book by E.B. White, and adapted by Joseph Robinette. The friendship between Wilbur (a sweet, naïve pig) and Charlotte (a wise, graceful spider) is at the core of this production, and the story beautifully unfolds with humor and boundless energy.

I must first acknowledge the mad talent of the production team. First time director Pockets Seachrist has adeptly assembled a top-notch crew to bring their vision to fruition. Pockets has channeled their own acting talents and used their vast knowledge of character development to guide the cast to the engaging performances consistently seen thoughout this production. I cannot wait to see what they direct next!

Each technical facet complements each other to achieve the visual delight envisioned by this production team. This begins with the fabulous set designed by Colleen Algeo. Colleen has once again created a set that is absolutely stunning. It may appear simple at first glance, but don’t be fooled! The set changes reveal rotating panels used to effectively depict the various scenes in this play. The stunning artwork you see are Colleen Algeo originals! Master Carpenter Ray Podulka and Technical director/Master Carpenter Bill Algeo partnered again to oversee construction of this wonderful set. Amber Mangabat’s light (and sound) design is gorgeous, resulting in seamless transitions throughout. Lighting and sound design was well-executed by board operator David Zangwill. Without giving too much away, I can only say that Ms. Mangabat’s lighting design is nothing short of exquisite in Charlotte’s final scene.

Elda Kulp (Props Designer) expertly gathered the wide range of unique props needed to round out the believability of the story. Veteran costumer Deb Takes has outdone herself with the costume design for this show. Each costume was thoughtful and practical at the same time, beautifuly capturing the spirit of the animals and humans alike.

Stage Manager Claire Spigel took great care to lead their crew, Zoe and Josie Neuenschwander, through each scene change with efficiency and polish. Producer extraordinaire Jane Spigel oversaw- basically everything- with her usual stamp of excellence.

The show opens with narrators Gabby Gallagher, Ava McManus, and Bella McManus setting the stage for this heartwarming story. These young actors demonstrate great poise and talent as they help propel the action throughout the show. Keep your eyes open to see if you can catch on to the tie between the narrators and Charlotte’s baby spiders later...

We are soon introduced to The Arable Family and baby Wilbur, played by first-time performer Donatello Hicks. Donatello’s energy and facial expressions immediately draw the audience in- he is a natural! Real life couple Maria Serino and Brian Neuenschwander play maternal Martha and hard-working John Arable with an ease and wit that keeps the audience on their toes. Braden Dell’Aquila, (full disclosure- he is my son), is impish and funny as Avery Arable. Braden’s lively interpretation of his role is the source of many laughs throughout the play. Fern Arable, is impeccably portrayed by one of dcp's up and coming stars, Reese Mann. Reese imbues her character with a combination of naivete and kindness as she does everything in her power to save Wilbur. The audience can’t help but root for this young lady as she learns the importance of friendship. Their devotion to each other changes as the story progresses, but it never waivers.

Wilbur, magnificently played by Xavier Hicks, is the heart of this play. This young man astoundingly portrays the sweet pig with a playfulness and emotional depth seldom seen in such a young actor. This kid is one to watch!

As the show progresses, we meet the Zuckermans, Wilbur’s second owners. Susan Dean and Thomas Rush are affable as Edith and Homer Zuckerman. Their progression from practical and efficient farmers to moved and amazed witnesses of the “miracle” is fun and entertaining. Joshua Reyes plays Lurvy the farmhand with sincerity and likeable goofiness.

The Zuckerman farm is also home to a hilarious collection of farm animals including Francesca Foulkes who is mischievious as the plucky Lamb, Genee Foulkes who is insanely comical as the droll Sheep, and the suspicious Gander deftly played by Geary Gorup. The fantastically talented Judy Winship deserves a special shout out for her commitment to her role of the Goose. Impressively, Judy does not lose her physicality for even a moment. She is totally immersed in her character, and is nothing short of mesmerizing. Bria McCarthy brightens the stage as Templeton the rat with spunk and sarcasm.

If Wilbur is the heart of this production, Birdie Gurczynski as Charlotte, is the soul. Birdie delivers a captivating performance as the selfless spider who teaches Wilbur the true meaning of friendship. With enormous talent, this young actor gracefully navigates Charlotte’s impending mortality with humor and dignity. Birdie’s Charlotte reminds us that by helping others, we lift ourselves.

Avianna McCarthy leads the vibrant ensemble, and commands the stage with confidence as the reporter and the Mayor. Chris McBreen is amusing as Wilbur’s competition, the not so nice Uncle. Max Kocher as the photographer/Clown, illicits giggles the moment he steps on stage. Grissom (a scene stealer in his debut) and Harlow Foulkes are precocious and delightful as featured Fairgoers. Much of the cast does double duty with their energetic performances as additional Fairgoers.

The baby spiders are played to adorable, sassy perfection by the super talented Evelyn Landis, Ella Pinkerton and Brynn Pongras.

The technical aspects and performances of Charlotte’s Web are intricately woven together to culminate in a delightful production from start to finish. This play is a story for all generations and will undoubtedly enthrall audiences of all ages. Do not miss this play- it is TERRIFIC!

Remaining performances of Charlotte’s Web are July 13th and 14th at 1:00 pm & 4:00 pm, July 19th at 8:00 PM, and July 20th at 1:00 pm & 4:00 pm.