Theater review: Stage version of Dahl's ‘BFG' is a family-pleaser

CLICK HERE to see photos of The BFG (2009)!

By Alison Harney,
Star-News Correspondent

Published: Friday, April 10, 2009 at 3:20 p.m.

Roald Dahl's beloved young readers novel, "The BFG" (Big Friendly Giant), adapted into a play by David Wood, was first performed in England in 1991. Stageworks Youth Theatre is performing the play on the main stage at Thalian Hall, where puppets and actors unite to create a magical world of giants, dreams and royal palaces.

In the story, the gentle, 24-foot BFG (Jerry Winsett) and orphaned Sophie (Rachael Moser and her adorable puppet) band together to fight off the child-hungry giants who roam the world stealing children from their beds. Our friendly hero of Giant Country mixes a special dream (as dream-catching and concocting is his job), that convinces the Queen of England to believe the unbelievable and to take action against evil giants Bloodbottler, Fleshlumpeater, Bonecruncher, Meatdripper, Childchewer, and Gizzardgulper.

The production, directed by Gina Gambony, is impressively executed, visually stunning, funny and innovative. Featuring both children and seasoned actors, the show combines puppetry and elaborate costumes to bring about a world that tickles the imagination.

Moser, who appears on stage with her tiny puppet, Sophie, does an excellent job of enhancing the puppet's emotions through her own facial expressions while also disappearing and giving the puppet life. Winsett as the BFG is endearing and funny as he delivers a world of snozzcumbers, whizzpoppers and other silly terms. Tamora Sneed and Kayleigh Payne collectively animate the Queen of England with impressive and humorous delivery.

The cast is rounded out by over 20 additional actors, comprised mostly of children and high school students. As with other Stageworks productions, the cast impresses with its dedication and maturity. The opening night performance was a little clunky at certain transitions but nothing unforgivable, and the show mostly comes across as well-oiled and tightly memorized.

The costumes by Barb Millis and Karen DelPillar are marvelous, especially the scary (but dancing) giants. The set (Cole Marquis, Steve Curry and Scenic Asylum) is visually exciting, and enhanced by interesting directorial choices, such as the beautiful glass bulbs that serve as bobbing dreams. correction: Scary Giants by Gina Gambony, Cole Marquis, and workshop participants!!

At less than 90 minutes, the show is a smart length, affordable and a good time for kids and parents alike.