The Adventures of Pinocchio

at Deaf West Theatre

Reviewed by Dink O'Neal

March 03, 2011


The elements of children's theater are present and accounted for: a universally familiar story, slapstick humor, a handful of simple tunes, and some of the most inventively creative scenic elements imaginable. But that's where the comparison abruptly ends. The collaborative efforts of director Stephen Rothman and his company, consisting of deaf and hearing actors, transform this piece from merely traditional to heartwarmingly sublime. And in so doing, they offer an unforgettable experience to audience members on both sides of the "aural curtain."

The balance achieved throughout the production is mind-blowing. Some actors provide physical characterizations while others in the ensemble verbalize the dialogue through American Sign Language. Setting the exceptional standard are Amber Zion and her vocal counterpart, Darrin Revitz, working in seamless harmony as the play's title character. Revitz is the cerebrally dry wit to Zion's boundless energy. Together, they never miss a beat.

Likewise, James Royce Edwards, a hearing actor skilled in ASL, offers an overflowing fount of talent voicing various characters in addition to cameo appearances as the evil Ringmaster of Playland and the delicious Rabbit of Death. With true gusto, Vae brings to life this commedia dell'arte–based production's version of Jiminy Cricket, as well as the sly Fox and a crabby school "marm." Her partner in crime, the Cat, is played by Lexi Marman whose additional work as a mystical girl/Blue Fairy is genuinely touching. Equally fine are the numerous supporting turns brought to the stage by Lindsey W. Evans, Tommy Korn, Colin O'Brien-Lux, and Matt Henerson as the long-suffering Geppetto

A host of designers bring technical wizardry to the proceedings. Evan Bartoletti's scenery is reminiscent of a giant pop-up storybook. Ann Closs-Farley's costuming puts Broadway to shame. Joe Cerqua provides haunting original musical compositions. And Alexandra Dunn's ingenious array of properties tops itself with each impending scene. Ultimately, director Rothman, capitalizing on playwright Lee Hall's somewhat adult-oriented adaptation of Carlo Collodi's original novel, has accomplished the enviable: a multilevel presentation suitable for virtually everyone.

Presented by and at Deaf West Theatre, 5112 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood. Feb. 25–Mar. 27. Thu.–Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 & 8 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. (818) 762-2773 (voice) or (866) 954-2986 (video phone). www.deafwest.org. 


 
 
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