Honk!
is the stage version of The Ugly Duckling
that tells the story of a young duck whose unappealing looks forces him from
the flock due to ridicule and taunts. Along the way he is pursued by a hungry
cat and a frantic mother. His journey to find love and acceptance is filled
with adventure, charm and humor. The story, which teaches tolerance, is told in
part through energetic song and dance performances, thanks to musical director
Patrick Martin and choreography by Jaydie Allen. The director, Diane Hancock,
sings high praise for each cast of about 30 young performers.
“The
story is not contemporary,” and the kids are not as familiar with the dialogue
and characters as they might with a Disney production. Martin says the
harmonies are complex and “not really written for children.” But the casts have
risen to the challenge and deliver impressive performances.
Highlights
include the opening Poultry Tale,
where the actors introduce the story in song and dance. And Look At Him, performed by the entire
cast, which is a defining moment when Ugly is singled out by family and
neighbors for the way he looks – a number that is reprised in the finale.
The
production is enhanced by a brightly colored set: Vivid greens and browns form
a comically over-sized pond, created by a team of community volunteers.
Hancock
reflected on early rehearsals when the stage experience of the multi-age
performers ranged from zero to several years. “Right now,” just days before the
opening performance, “it’s hard to tell the difference.” Older, “more
experienced” actors willingly serve as mentors. Chloe Cyr who plays Ida, Ugly’s
mother, says “I like interacting with the younger kids and helping them in
their acting ability. They’re fast learners.” And, she added with a smile, “I
like being looked up to.”
Angel
Spiller agrees, “This is really fun. We come together like a big family. The
older kids helped me when I was little. Now I can give back.”
Honk!
is produced by Heidi Doucette and Gail White. It opens March 4 with 12 performances
through March 20 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Consult www.windhamtheater.org for times
and cast performances.
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