“Rescue Rue” at the New York Musical Theatre Festival at The Ford Foundation Studio Theatre (Closes on Sunday July 20, 2014)
“Rescue Rue” at the New York Musical Theatre Festival at The Ford Foundation Studio Theatre (Closes on Sunday July 20, 2014) Music and Lyrics by Kate Steinberg and Joshua Zecher-Ross Concept, Book, and Additional Lyrics by Stacey Weingarten Directed by Stacey Weingarten Reviewed by David Roberts Theatre Reviews Limited
Based on the true story of Rue, the Chiweenie who was rescued from a high-kill animal shelter in the South and found her way to the more humane Badness Brooklyn Animal Shelter, “Rescue Rue” is a charming new musical with enduring themes of universal love and the importance of a supportive home and family.
The story itself is narrated by Sarah Haines and is the relatively straightforward tale of the rescue of Rue from her abusive family to a loving home in Brooklyn, New York. That journey puts her in harm’s way as she attempts to survive on the street and in the high-kill shelter where she and her comrades await daily being sold off to dog fight organizers. Rue (Lisa Helmi Johansen) is accompanied most often by her streetwise and heart-hardened buddy Squish (Jennifer Barnhart) who wants to re-open her heart to love.
An outstanding cast of singers and "Avenue Q" puppeteers command the stage as they tell Rue’s important story. Under Stacey Weingarten’s generous and gifted direction and accompanied by the “Rescue Rue” Band, the strong ensemble cast fills the stage with hope, joy, and pure enjoyment. Audience favorites are “Danger’s Coming,” “I Just Need Me,” and “Furever Friend.”
However, “Rescue Rue” is more than a puppet show for children (although it is that par excellence!). Like other children’s stories that hold a deeper meaning for adults (think “Winnie-the-Pooh” or “The Adventures of Alice in Wonderland”), “Rescue Rue” is an engaging and marvelous trope for the new beginnings awaiting all those seeking unconditional and non-judgmental love, all those existing on the fringe of society awaiting a place “around the table.” For example, this seemingly innocent musical is a powerful extended metaphor for immigration reform, marriage equality, and the universal struggle for equal rights.
And like those struggles, Rue’s journey often requires the aid of real friends and the occasional “Fairy Dogmother.” Rue’s Fairy Dogmother (GretchenWylder) personifies all those who over the centuries have come to the aid of those on the journey to new beginnings. The day this reviewer saw “Rescue Rue” the real Rue was sitting in the audience in a delightful puppy carrier. Just think, this could also be your bonus gift for attending the remaining performances of this absorbing story of the search for all that humankind calls home.
RESCUE RUE
“Rescue Rue” is presented by The New York Musical Theatre Festival and Chinese Mother Jewish Daughter LLC. Director: Stacey Weingarten; Music Director: Andrew Wheeler; Choreography: Rhonda Miller; Scenic Design: Mitchell Ost and David Goldstein; Costume Design: Bree Perry; Lighting Design:
Kate Devine; Sound Design: Gordon Heal; Puppet Design: Andy Hayward; Production Stage Manager: Caskey Hunsader; Press Representative: OFF-OFF PR/Paul Siebold. Production photos by Larry Hamilton/BLUE Photography.
The cast includes Jennifer Barnhart, Nate Begle, Sarah Haines, Lisa Helmi Johanson, Jason Jacoby, Brendan Malafronte, and Gretchen Wylder. The orchestra includes Andrew Wheeler (Conductor/Piano); Chris Kelly (Bass); and Chepe Beltranena (Drums).
“Rescue Rue” continues performances on Saturday July 19th at 12:00 p.m. and Sunday July 20th at 11:00 a.m. at The Ford Foundation Studio Theatre at The Pershing Square Signature Center, 480 West 42nd Street, NYC 10036. Tickets: $25. For tickets, visit nymf.org. Direct ticketing link: https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pr/935949. Runtime: 1 hour with no intermission. “Rescue Rue” is suitable for theatre-going children ages three and up, and for all children at heart.
Permalink | Posted by David Roberts on Saturday, July 12, 2014
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