The Star, December 22, 2005
Frog and Toad hop onto Chicago stage
By Don Snider
December can be the most wonderful time of the year for family entertainment.
But sometimes, it can be too much of a good thing.
Who has time to see all the great family shows?
Then January comes, and they're mostly all gone.
But not, necessarily, this year.
The new Chicago Children's Theatre is starting the new year with one of the most delightful new family shows of all—“A Year With Frog and Toad.”
You may have heard of it.
Last year, thanks to artistic director Etel Billig, the Illinois Theatre Center in Park Forest nabbed exclusive script rights to the musical, based on Arnold Lobel's children's books. It was one of the South Suburbs' best shows—family or adult—for the entire year.
Now, Jacqueline Russell has similarly grabbed it for its Chicago Children's Theatre debut.
It will open for previews Jan. 14 and run through March 5 at the Goodman's Owens Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St.
Russell, who helped launch Chicago's Lookingglass Theatre and was in charge of children's programs at the Old Town School of Fold Music, describes Chicago Children's Theatre as “itinerant.”
“Frog and Toad” will be at Goodman's intimate Owens Theatre, which seats 350. Other shows to be announced during the year will be staged at the Harris Theatre (Millennium Park) and at Steppenwolf.
“Frog and Toad” is being touted a month early because the CCT is offering a special holiday gift package that includes tickets, priority seating, the original Broadway cast recording CD, the original book and a plush Frog or Toad stuffed animal (see details in the accompanying box).
“We had debated whether to open ‘Frog and Toad' during the (December) holidays,” Russell told Firstlook by phone.
“But then we thought it would be better after the holidays, when it wasn't competing against so much.”
“This is the perfect show to introduce Chicago Children's Theatre to local audiences. It's funny, exuberant, sophisticated and heartfelt—everything we want our productions to be.”
“A Year with Frog and Toad” actually goes through a full year with the neighbors, Frog and Toad. They're best friends, but they're kind of an odd couple. Toad is a worrywart. Frog is more carefree.
Each amphibian comes to life with catchy and hilariously heart-warming songs, along with their many friends, including Snail, Mouse and others.
“Even without the music, it's a fun story,” Russell said. “I was principal for a day at a Chicago school and read it to the children. The girls loved it, but the boys were absolutely riveted.”
Bradley Mott, a veteran comedian in Chicago regional theaters and at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, plays Toad.
Joseph Anthony Foronda portrays Frog.
Three other actors play multiple roles.
“This is a story adults will love just as much as kids,” Russell said. “It's hard to find one this good that appeals to such a wide range of ages.”
IF YOU GO…
WHAT: Chicago Children's Theatre debut “A Year With Frog and Toad.”
WHERE: Goodman's Owens Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago.
WHEN: Previews Jan. 14 to 19; regular run Jan. 20 to March 5, including six daytime and two evening shows a week. TICKETS: $12 to $33 for previews; $17 to $38 regular. Special gift packages available will include priority seating, the original book and Broadway CD and a stuffed Frog or Toad. PHONE: (312) 443-3800
© 2005 The Star