“Pippi Longstocking” is a high-energy, rollicking good show. Katie Adducci, who plays Pippi, is so athletic. I chatted with a woman at intermission who has seen several productions of “Pippi”. She thought Kate was one of the oldest girls to play Pippi. (She seemed youthful to me.) I said she looked like she’s a good gymnast. The woman replied, “That’s probably why they chose her.” She’s everywhere on stage. Big movements. Animated dancing. My heart rate went up from watching it!
The entire show is so well choreographed – every movement, not just the dancing, including the scenes where they run in and out, up and down, over, under, above, doors opening and shutting. All of that is coordinated with sound effects. The scene with the thieves reminded me of “Home Alone”, and it was all a game to Pippi. Her horse and Mr. Nelson, the monkey, make their appearances, too. They seemed so real.
Pippi has the kind of freedom that kids dream about, especially when they’re doing chores or sitting long hours in school. They want to be independent, have adventures, and never worry about bedtime…until the thunderstorms strike in the middle of the night.
Pippi is a fictional character. She’s like Astrid Lindgren’s imaginary friend, brought to life through her stories, and animated on stage through wonderful productions like these. And, now, she can be our imaginary friend, too.
“Pippi Longstocking” will play at The Children’s Theatre Company in Minneapolis through June 10. Go to their website for showtimes and tickets. http://www.childrenstheatre.org/
Visit my writer’s blog, www.maryaalgaard.blogspot.com, for photos and to see who wants to invite Pippi over for a play date!
