First Stage, Milwaukee’s theater for children and young adults, opens its season with the world premiere of Arthur & Friends Make a Musical! After a two-year delay due to Covid precautions, the theater company is back to staging shows in its traditional venue, the Marcus Center’s Todd Wehr Theater.
The new musical tells the story of Arthur the Aardvark, his family, classmates and his community of Elwood City. Everyone comes together at the show’s end to witness a performance in which Arthur and his classmates share what they love about their small town.
The character of Arthur is well-known to generations of children. The creation of Marc Brown, Arthur formerly “starred” in an animated PBS TV children’s series. He is represented in 27 books published over the years.
The musical was created by locally prominent First Stage Resident Playwright, lyricist and actor John Maclay, with music and lyrics by composer/lyricist, writer and First Stage alum Brett Ryback. As is typical of First Stage productions, a few adult actors are joined by a handful of kids. All First Stage shows are double-cast, and this reviewer saw a performance by the Lakewood cast.
As the musical opens, Mr. Ratburn (James Carrington), Arthur’s teacher, announces that their third-grade class will create a play for the entire community. But Arthur isn’t so sure about this project. He feels that he can’t come up with a story that will keep the audience’s attention.
At first, Arthur writes something personal about his dog. His efforts are applauded by his parents (SaraLynn Evenson and Zach Thomas Woods). But Arthur soon feels as though his story lacks pizzazz, so he writes a far-fetched tale about elephants in outer space.
As Arthur (Sanaiah Hibbler) ponders which story he’ll tell at the show, his efforts are guided by some of his close school friends, including Muffy (Niamh Mayne), Francine (Lucia Santana), Buster (Alex Radtke) and Brain (Charlie Cornell, who was filling in for another actor). All of the young actors sing and dance with precision.
The actor who portrays Arthur doesn’t wear an animal costume or headgear in the production. He simply dons Arthur’s traditional gold sweater and red sneakers (costumes by Jason Orlenko).
The show’s colors are cheerful and bright, against the backdrop of a boldly colored set (by scene designer Arnold Bueso). The tunes add a nice bounce to the show, under the music direction of Brett Ryback and choreography by Khalia Davis. Some of the songs are created to a rock-and-roll beat. In one number, a Hamilton-themed skit will be appreciated by parents (and go right over the heads of most of the kids).
There are many funny moments throughout the show, such as the times in which Arthur’s little sister, D.W., (Layla Katers) tries to steal her brother’s limelight. A number of sight gags are good for some giggles, especially the appearance of the well-named Mr. Baggypants (Zach Thomas Woods). There’s also a cameo appearance by a space alien (puppetry by Arnold Bueso).
Although the plot’s evolution is somewhat strained at times, it’s clear that it doesn’t really matter to younger members of the audience. The musical’s overall themes of family unity and developing strong friendships at school are stated repeatedly. In the end, a relieved Arthur learns that being his best, unique self is not so difficult after all.
