Journey through friendship: Reviewing ‘A Year With Frog and Toad’

“A Year With Frog and Toad” at Children’s Theatre Company (CTC) is a delightful journey through friendship and adventure based on the beloved books by Arnold Lobel. Directed by Peter C. Brosius, the production features charming performances and creative elements that will enchant young audiences.

Running April 23 to June 16 on the UnitedHealth Group Stage, this production offers a heartwarming experience for families with children. While not this writer’s personal favorite, the play caters well to a younger audience, with its lighthearted humor and entertaining short tales.

One of the highlights of the show is the inventive use of underwater scenes, referred to as “underwater ballet,” which add a magical quality to the production. These moments transport the audience into the underwater world of Frog and Toad, creating a truly immersive experience. The beauty of the scenery and the choreography finds no bounds underwater.

Another crowd favorite was the delightful portrayal of the character, the Snail, by Ryan London Levin. With his infectious charm and humor, Levin brings the Snail to life in a way that captivates the audience from the moment he slithers onto the stage. His whimsical antics and quirky personality add a layer of whimsy to the production, infusing each scene with a sense of playfulness and joy.

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As the Snail, Levin embodies the essence of the character, from his slow, deliberate movements to his endearing mannerisms. Whether he’s delivering mail at a leisurely pace or engaging in witty banter with Frog and Toad, Levin’s performance is both endearing and entertaining. His comedic timing is impeccable, eliciting laughter from both children and adults alike.

CTC is known for its commitment to positive messaging and inclusivity in its productions, but it’s important to acknowledge that there are aspects of “A Year With Frog and Toad” that may not resonate positively with all audience members. For example, there’s a scene where Toad feels uncomfortable in his bathing suit and tries to hide. Unfortunately, Frog’s attempt to help backfires when he accidentally invites a crowd, leading to everyone pointing and laughing at Toad. This moment highlights Toad’s vulnerability and the insensitivity of those around him, as they respond with ridicule rather than empathy.

While the intention may have been to create humor, the scene inadvertently reinforces harmful stereotypes about body image and encourages bullying behavior. It’s essential for productions, especially those aimed at young audiences, to handle sensitive topics like body image with care and respect.

This scene serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting body positivity and empathy, both on and off the stage. By addressing these themes thoughtfully, theater productions can contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate society.

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Despite many strengths, the play may lack some of the more sophisticated humor and themes found in other CTC productions, making it best suited for a younger audience, up to age 12.

Overall, “A Year With Frog and Toad” offers a delightful theatrical experience for families, with charming performances and creative staging. Tickets can be purchased online, or by calling the ticket office at 612.874.0400. Ticket prices start at $15, making it an accessible option for families looking for quality entertainment.

Editor’s note: This is the latest installment of Rachel’s Reviews, where Rachel Engstrom, a contributor to Eden Prairie Local News (EPLN), reviews various aspects of Eden Prairie and beyond. Have ideas for reviews? Reach out to Rachel Engstrom at Rachel.Engstrom@eplocalnews.org.