Chicago Stage Review October 18, 2008

By Robert Andersen

My parents used to always tell those “when I was your age stories” where they would highlight how much better their lives were without all the mish-mosh of today. They could make a go-kart from an orange crate; make their own dolly clothes from scraps, heck, they could have fun with a stick and the retainer ring from a wooden barrel. Could they have had as much fun with a roll of paper? Perhaps. You do not need to be a child to have fun with non-descript things. You just need to open your mind.


Chicago Children's Theatre brings us an exciting North American premiere and a delightful interpretation of the playful mind. If All the World Were Paper is an original creation of child-like theatrical genius. The actors wander through the audience in a kind of pre-show get to know you, engaging the children in a welcoming of imagination. They playfully create different props and scenes with nothing more than their minds and a roll of butcher paper. As the stage action begins the actors continue to involve the audience in their playtime.

CCT has assembled some of Chicago's finest stage actors. The cast is wonderful. They maintain a level of excitement, which is critical for children's shows. Alex Goodrich, playing the part of “Doodle,” shows exceptional fortitude and versatility. In addition to having the lion share of stage time he also provides musical accompaniment on the ukulele—brilliant. The other two actors are also magical in their own rights. Sandra Delgado, in the role of Curlicue, provides a wonderful balance to her partners. Her voice and creativity are a perfect complement. The third “playmate”, Alexis Rogers, shows inspired poise as the final member. She offers her beautiful voice and charming presence as the main focus of the story, ‘Paper Girl.'

My 3-year-old daughter was transfixed throughout the entire production. Except for occasional bashful flirtation, she was completely engaged in the interactive aspects of the show and played and danced along with the charming cast. If All the World Were Paper not only encourages interaction, but it is also a brilliant introduction to improvisation and invention.

Written by Tim Webb and originally created in London by Oily Cart through the course of a theatre improv training exercise, If All the World Were Paper is sure to delight. Chicago Children's Theatre Artistic Director Jacqueline Russell gained first hand experience with the show's conception while working/studying in London.

“We were given all this paper and told to create a show with no words,” explained Russell. She also added how fortunate CCT is to be able to be the first to bring this show to a U.S. stage. 

If All the World Were Paper is worthy of making it a destination or an entertaining side trip while at the museum. The visual elements are remarkable. The music is enchanting and the production is perfectly gauged for the 2 years old and up crowd. This is a creative triumph that is sure to unlock the imagination of both old and young.

4 STARS

(”If All the World Were Paper ” runs through November 30 at The Little Theater at The Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive. 773-227-0180.)