This weekend, we attended opening night of the newest childrens’ play at The Arden Theater, The Flea and the Professor based on the story by Hans Christian Anderson. We had no idea what the play was about, but we were still excited. It turns out it centers around a circus!
A young professor loses everything in the world but the flea who lives in his vest. And that turns out to be plenty. He and the flea become the best of friends, start a circus act, and set off to tour the world. Together our heroes must overcome shipwrecks, cannibals, and tickling. Adapted from the last story by the author of The Little Mermaid, The Ugly Duckling, and The Emperor’s New Clothes, this new musical odyssey celebrates the excitement of the unknown.
The opening night party was amazing, with yummy kid-friendly food from Catering by Design, tasty ice cream from Franklin Fountain and fun activities! The girls went on a scavenger hunt and found themselves making hot air balloons, getting their faces painted and even ending up inside a bubble!
Ellie popping the bubble that surrounded her!
The show was fantastic. Positively magical. It never ceases to amaze me how something like a hot air balloon or a flea circus or a pirate ship can be portrayed on the stage. The girls were entranced, laughing and cheering and having a wonderful time. They both loved it! Grace’s favorite character was the princess with the pink hair (I’m sure you find this shocking), while Ellie loved the Flea! The music was so catchy: the next day all of us were singing the songs – even my husband! It has a great mix of humor for kids and adults and just the right amount of silliness! I would probably recommend this for ages 5 and up, although a mature 4 year-old would probably be fine. After, Grace was thrilled to meet The Professor. She told him, “I’m glad you found a family.” It was so sweet!
gracie and the professor
On the drive to the theater, my kids were asking a zillion questions, as usual. And Grace said, “You know what? I don’t even care what the play is about! I just love going to see plays!” And that is why we take our kids to the theater – especially children’s theater. We’re teaching them to love this art form, to appreciate theater and become a life-long patron of the arts. That’s why I am so thankful for programs like the Arden – and for programs like Arden for All that brings theater to children who might not otherwise get the opportunity. If you can, try to take your kids to the theater. For under $100, a family of four can see a show at the Arden. And the memories will last so much longer than you can even imagine.
p.s.
This winter, the Arden is presenting Charlotte’s Web!!!!! Who wants to go with us!?!?
disclosure: we received tickets to this show from the arden theatre. i was not compensated for this post. as always, all opinions are my own.
