‘A Year With Frog and Toad’ is a delightful musical for young audiences based on Arnold Lobel’s classic characters
In the heart of winter, the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities has become a beacon of warmth and whimsy with its latest offering, A Year With Frog and Toad.
This lively production, based on Arnold Lobel’s beloved books, with book and lyrics by Willie Reale and music by Robert Reale, opened on Jan. 23, promising a season of laughter and learning.
Under the insightful direction of David and Julie Payne, and with the musical guidance of Keith Ewer, the show vibrates with an energy as infectious as it is heartfelt. The runtime of one hour, without intermission, is perfectly paced for its intended young audience, drawing children and adults alike into the world of the cheerful Frog and the somewhat grumpy Toad. Together, these two best friends will sing and dance their way through the four seasons.
Piper Lindsay Arpan’s cheeky choreography, matched with the cast’s unwavering commitment, turns musical numbers into witty, upbeat spectacles. From the jazzy opening number performed by the birds to the soft-shoe dance by Frog (Nick Rigg Johnson) and Toad (Sean Johnson), the dynamic between the characters is established with joy and jest.
The scenic and costume design by Brian Mallgrave is a visual feast, transforming Lobel’s original illustrations into a vibrant, three-dimensional wonderland. Costumes cleverly suggest each animal’s essence, allowing characters to leap beyond their animal identities and into our hearts.
Nick Rigg Johnson and Sean Johnson’s portrayal of Frog and Toad, respectively, are effortlessly charming. Their chemistry is palpable, making every scene they share a highlight of the show. Their adventures, from spring’s blossoming friendship to winter’s cozy camaraderie, are portrayed with an authenticity that speaks to the heart of Lobel’s stories.
Caleb Wenger, as both a bird and a snail, showcases remarkable versatility, earning hearty laughs and endearing himself to the audience with his lovable energy – he earned consistent laughs from the kid in the crowd every time he would start snail-running. The entire cast, including Joe Barnard, Antigone Biddle, Leiney Rigg, Rebekah Ortiz and Elton Tanega, deliver performances that are both polished and playful, contributing to the overall charm of the production.
The musical offers a delightful blend of humor that resonates with both children and adults. The show’s ability to weave physical comedy, witty dialogue and situational humor into the fabric of its storytelling is a testament to the directorial vision of the Paynes, as well as the cast’s comedic timing and expressiveness.
From the uproarious cookie gag involving Mouse (Antigone Biddle) to the hilariously exaggerated musical number “Getta Loada Toad,” where the ensemble of animals humorously critiques Toad’s bathing suit, the production never misses a beat in eliciting laughter. This humor, combined with touches of theatrical magic like the changing seasons unfolding before the audience’s eyes, deepens the engagement with the story’s themes of friendship and acceptance.
A Year With Frog and Toad at the Arvada Center is a testament to the power of children’s theatre to enchant, educate and inspire. It is a reminder of the simple joys of friendship and the seasons of change that shape our lives. This production is a must-see for families and anyone who cherishes the magic of storytelling.
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