We’ve been long time supporters of children’s theater in the DC area, and one of our favorites is Adventure Theater MTC at Glen Echo park.
Since Beezus was 3 years old, we’ve been heading to these productions. Over the years, our favorites have been “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” and “Frog and Toad.” The production of Big Nate (based on the comic strips by Lincoln Pierce) that we saw last weekend continues this tradition of excellence in musical theater for children. Energetic and lively with catchy music (BIG NATE, BIG BIG NAaaaaaATE), an easy to follow story line, and just enough inside jokes to make the parents laugh out loud, this production was a big hit with our entire family.
After the shows, we love speaking to the actors. I’m always thrilled to see a CUA alum listed among a cast, and this performance had one: Tim Rogan in the role of Artur ! Maybe it’s because we are moving out of the area in the next few months and I’m feeling nostalgic, but I got a little teary when I told the cast how much we enjoyed the show. I just love that there’s an entire community in the DC metropolitan area devoted to producing quality children’s theater. I’m really going to miss that.
Since Beezus and Ramona are only 7 and 5, we haven’t read the Big Nate comic strips and books yet, but the show was still totally enjoyable even without this background information. If you have children between 5 and 15, chances are they will love it. It only runs through June 2nd, so buy your tickets now !
When Ellen isn’t traversing the Beltway in search of great musicals, she blogs semi-anonymously as Thrift Store Mama from her home in Gorgeous Prince George’s County, Maryland.
Photo and graphic credits Adventure Theater
