Published online December 9, 2018
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The TheatreWorks musical production of “Tuck Everlasting” is taken from Natalie Babbitt’s 1975 children’s novel about Winnie Foster an 11-year-old girl and a family she discovers, the Tucks, who live in the woods nearby. The family have uncovered a brook that gives them the secret of everlasting life.
Claudia Shear and Tim Federle’s book, with music by Chris Miller and lyrics by Nathan Tysen, brings a refreshing sense of a touch that goes down a different road we are not familiar with in our lives.
Natalie Schroeder alternates performances with Katie Maupin as Winnie. Both carry the intense role with fine acting, singing and dancing. Eddie Grey plays Jesse Tuck with playful enthusiasm as a 102-year-old who is forever 17. Michael Gene Sullivan, as the sly Man in the Yellow Suit, brings devious, corrupt moments of villainy in his search for the secret of endless life. They are supported by a super, solid cast.
Robert Kelley directs with a delicate brush which comes off more in pastels then bright hues He keeps the pace and actors interesting. Joe Ragey’s enthralling set of woods and a climbable tree are true scene stealers. Scenes swirl within one another to change locations of the areas in play. William Liberatore skillfully leads the fine TheatreWorks orchestra.
Near the end of the second act chorographer Alex Perez beautifully describes the passage of time, years and generations that pass in a delightful ballet that gathers all the meanings of life together. A potpourri of drama, comedy and music keep audience alert with the story to make for an enjoyable evening and asks the question: If you could live forever, would you?
DETAILS: “Tuck Everlasting”
Where: Lucie Stern Theatre at 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto
Through: Dec. 30
Running time: 2 hours 15 minutes One intermission
Tickets: $40-$100
For reservations and information call: (650) 463-1960 or visit www.theatreworks.org
