We have chosen ZACH Theatre in Austin for family date night outings a lot over the last few years. The theatre for families shows are geared towards young kids (pre-school and younger elementary age), are shorter (for those fidgety littles), and are brightly costumed and very engaging. Elephant and Piggie was no exception. Based on the popular Mo Willems book series, the play was full of energy, and interactive for the audience.
The show was engaging from the moment in started. S was literally LOLing throughout the play in response to the antics of the cast, with most of the LOLs provided by David Pena’s Gerald the elephant. Piggie, portrayed by Amanda Clifton (who we have loved in previous ZACH children’s theatre productions), brought the show’s heart.
The Squirrelles were a great addition, with energetic choreography and bright costumes to keep the younger audience entertained. There was also a scene towards the end where the audience gets involved (physically and vocally), which was a riot for kids and adults alike.
When I look back to our night at the play this past Friday (opening night), I keep picturing the huge smile spread across my son’s face, and the way Gerald had him literally LOLing. It was such a fun, happy, and positive play experience… the kind that creates that spark for a lifelong love of theatre in little ones.
I would like to reiterate that the ideal age group for this show is pre-school and younger elementary. The adults had a great time goofing off with the kids during the interactive scenes, but older kids might not be as connected with the characters and jokes. That being said, it was perfect for my almost-five-year-old. He has been talking about it for days since, and couldn’t wait to tell his older brother all about it when we got home.
Austin folks – plan your own date night with your kids or grandkids at ZACH! Click here to get your tickets to Elephant and Piggie: We are In a Play! (playing now through April 30th).
Leave a Reply