‘Fun Home’ at Theater Latté Da shows the power of community theater

Some performances move you. Others make you laugh, reflect or even shed a tear. And then there are the rare few that manage to do all of these at once.

Theater Latté Da’s production of “Fun Home,” based on Alison Bechdel’s acclaimed graphic memoir, is one of those extraordinary experiences. Running through May 11, the show had me laughing, crying and deeply reflecting – and I wasn’t alone. All around me, audience members were literally leaning forward in their seats, fully captivated by the story unfolding on stage.

From the very first scene, “Fun Home” pulls you right into the complex and poignant journey of Alison Bechdel’s life. The story is carried by three versions of Alison from different stages of her life, and seeing them share the stage – and their voices – was nothing short of magical. When they sang together, it felt transcendent, like a conversation across time. Their harmonies created an emotional resonance that lingered well beyond the final bow.

The staging deserves special praise. Scenic designer Eli Sherlock has crafted a set unlike anything I’ve seen before, beautifully complemented by Alice Trent’s lighting design. The stage transforms seamlessly from childhood memories to college reflections and family confrontations. Jason Hansen’s music direction keeps the emotional rhythm steady, with each note perfectly supporting the story.

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The nine-person cast brings immense talent and heart to the production. Honestly, the young performers were true standouts. Their charm, energy and impeccable timing added warmth and authenticity, making the story’s themes of family, identity and memory resonate even more deeply.

Under the direction of Addie Gorlin-Han, Theater Latté Da once again proves it’s a home for brave, honest and deeply human storytelling. “Fun Home” is not just a musical – it’s a transformative theatrical experience that stays with you long after the final curtain.

In an era when some worry that community theater is fading, this production is a shining reminder that local stages are alive and thriving. The energy in the Ritz Theater in Minneapolis was electric, with the audience fully engaged from start to finish. Even better? The performance runs about 90 minutes with no intermission, which keeps the momentum strong and the emotional arc intact. The venue itself adds to the charm – drinks are available for purchase, making it a truly delightful night out.

For anyone looking to immerse themselves in a performance that’s as thoughtful as it is entertaining, “Fun Home” is an absolute must-see.

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Tickets and more information are available through the Theater Latté Da website.

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. Do you have ideas for reviews? Reach out to Rachel Engstrom at rachel.engstrom@eplocalnews.org.