It's hard to keep secrets—especially when cake and ice cream are involved. It is the lure of such "sweet" temptations that causes all the trouble in the barnyard. The pretty-in-pink Precious (perky Kelly Stables) and her pal Dawson Dog (Harley Jay) have planned a surprise party for the piglet's younger brother, Lolly (Richard Horvitz). But Lolly is so crushed when he believes his birthday has been forgotten that he falls prey to a sly trick engineered by the sneaky Felini the Cat (Sandra Purpuro) and her meek cohort, Wendell the Weasel (a very entertaining Rad Daly), who are offended at not being invited to the celebration.
As the comical villains of the story, the delightful Purpuro and Daly are huge hits with parents and kids alike as they hiss and scurry and slither their way through the hour-long show. Director Moosie Drier wisely keeps a lid on their antics and those of the other pals, allowing them to go right to the edge but not over it. It also helps that this is clearly a high-quality production, supported by G. Kent Smith's colorful set and costume designs; Elizabeth Wright's lithe choreography; Chrystal Gale's spot-on, character-driven makeup; and Derrick McDaniel's bright lighting. Carrol Mendelson wrote the book of this world-premiere musical; bouncy music and lyrics are by Ken Mazur.
There are lessons quite obviously being taught: about not running off to play without telling someone where you're going and not making assumptions regarding people's actions. Young kids need such reminders, but even grownups can use a little moral prompting now and then. Here these come with happy, satisfied kids and musical numbers attached. Oh, yeah, and there's a little sweet treat for the audience at the end.
"Precious Piglet & Her Pals," presented in association with Bryan Rasmussen by and at the Whitefire Theatre, 13500 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks. Sat. 10 a.m. Jul. 9-Dec. 17. $10. (866) 811-4111 or (818) 990-2324.