“Mommy, that FUNNY!”
That’s what my two-year-old BOY said when we left Children’s Theatre Friday night. We had taken him, my 5 year old son, and my almost-nine-year-old daughter and her friend to see Pinkalicious: The Musical. Every one of us walked out smiling from the very sweet hour we had just enjoyed. Each age loved it – and every single one was entranced the entire musical.
I started reading Pinkalicious to my daughter when it first became popular – she was about 2 or 3 I guess. I think I have read that book about a million times over the years, and I really wondered how it would translate into a musical. My oldest son always loved the book, too, despite the girlie image it evokes. I was a little nervous that the little boys wouldn’t appreciate it since we don’t read the book to them very often, but it made absolutely no difference – kids do not have to be diehard Pinkalicious fans to enjoy it. The little boys “got it” and never looked away from the stage for an entire hour.
For those who don’t know the story of Pinkalicious, here is CTC’s description:
Based on the insanely popular book series Pinkalicious can’t stop eating pink cupcakes despite warnings from her parents. Her pink love affair lands her a case of Pinkititis, an affliction that turns her pink from head to toe – a dream come true for this pink-loving enthusiast. With Broadway-style show tunes, dancing cupcakes and a sparkling story, Pinkalicious: The Musical is a treat worth indulging in!
I’m always so impressed with CTC’s productions, and this one is no exception. They do a brilliant job of mixing equal parts song with dialogue – actually my daughter and her friend both remarked that they were glad that it wasn’t too heavy on the singing – there was a perfect balance.
The set design is exactly what you’d want it to be if you’ve read the book – bright, sweet, pink, and FUN. It really brings illustrator Victoria Kahn’s drawings to life. Costumes are equally delicious. At a couple of points, three dancing cupcakes come on stage – giggles were heard all over the theatre – and continued for Pinkalicious’s and Peter’s dancing and singing duo (they really play to the parents in the audience for this one – think dance moves from our college days – the kids ATE. IT. UP….no pun intended).
This is a must-see for all ages. CTC recommends it for ages 5 and up, but like I said, my two-year-old had no problem focusing on it for the hour and absolutely loved it. In fact, a friend of mine who was also there that night remarked that she didn’t hear any cries, whines, or tantrums from the audience – it was all giggles and smiles. The older kids weren’t bored at all – there was no way they could be – it’s sugary fun for a solid hour.
Just be warned, though, you’re going to have this insane craving for a pink cupcake –plan right now to head over to Cloud 9 Confections in Seventh Street Station after the show to satisfy your sweet tooth. We didn’t, and I’m STILL thinking about pink cupcakes. I might have to make a quick stop there this weekend!
More information:
Pinkalicious: The Musical
Book by Elizabeth Kann and Victoria Kann
Music by John Gregor
Lyrics by John Gregor, Elizabeth Kann and Victoria Kann
Based on the book Pinkalicious by Victoria Kann and Elizabeth Kann
April 12-May 5 • McColl Family Theatre
Tickets start at $20
Click here to order tickets.
