Nothing suits a rainy day better than heading off to Glen Echo Park to see the latest production at The Puppet Co. On Sunday, we loaded into the car to enjoy an afternoon of Rapunzel. Little did I know, before settling into our seats, that Rapunzel is more than just a girl who lets down her hair…it’s a radish.
Seriously.
Prince, Witch Wartsmith and Rapunzel in the Puppet Co.’s production of “Rapunzel.” Photo by Christopher Piper.
Am I an idiot? Seemingly I am. Either that or I’ve put too much time into the Disney version of Rapunzel and not enough focus on the Grimm fairy tale version, which is what the Puppet Co’s version is styled after. The puppet styles reminded me of the old Punch and Judy puppets from England and Eric Brooks single-handedly performs the entire 45-minute production, seamlessly and convincingly as each of the characters. A feat that should not go unnoticed because I found it remarkable.
The stage is designed brightly with a purple set and varying backgrounds to suit the scenes. Witch Wartsmith quickly became my favorite character for her cunning in getting what she wanted: a baby – and her quick wit. At one point she quips “Yay for motherhood,” much to the delight of most of the parents in the audience. Noteworthy, old Witch Wartsmith also quickly won over the heart of my three-year-old because she “talked a lot.”
Reason enough, in my book.
With enough physical comedy throughout the production to keep the attention of shiftless youngsters, even the youngest theater-goers were able to hold their attention for the delightful 45 minutes Brooks guided us through the tale. Both my girls especially enjoyed the chase scene when the old witch tries to cut Rapunzel’s hair upon learning the Prince had discovered her and planned to return for her the next day. I think the adults in the room appreciated Witch Wartsmith’s questionable magic skills as she struggled to make Rapunzel vanish from the castle tower.
Billed by the Puppet Co. as the “un-Tangled” version of Rapunzel, you can catch this great show only through April 7. It would top my list as a spring break activity, if your days aren’t already booked.
Show times: Thursdays & Fridays at 10 & 11:30 a.m. Saturdays & Sundays at 11:30am & 1pm.
Running Time: 45 minutes
Recommended: PreK – Grade 4. Noteworthy: Puppet Co does not recommend this show for children under the age of 3.5 and I would agree with their assessment.
Tickets: $10
Contact: Box Office, 301.634.5380. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.thepuppetco.org.
Disclosure: The Puppet Co. gifted our tickets to me. My opinions here are all my own.
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