Theatre for babies is a delicate balancing act; the show needs to be a multisensory experience for the target audience who may not yet be able to follow plot lines or dialogue and yet there should also be something for the slightly older children and certainly a little more to engage the parents who are going to have to sit through the performance too. Baby Rock by Los Angeles based theatre company Multilinguart does this impeccably by not being afraid to have a plot with a worthwhile message but ensuring that the action never really slows, and on the rare occasions where it does, there are still some lovely visuals on stage with liberal use of shadow puppets, sparkly lights, and colourful wigs and costumes.
A delightful intro to music, language, and friendship for the little ones.
As we enter the space, the cast of two are onstage with bubble guns and floaty fabric, catching the attention of the tiny audience members as they are perched on laps. It’s a lovely way to begin engagement immediately and, when the actual performance starts with a song, it segues seamlessly. The plot is kept simple; a young girl learns a valuable lesson about diversity being a good thing and that friendships can overcome differences. No complaints there.
Originally written in Spanish, this production has been adapted and translated by director Taylor Bazos, who has made the choice to keep one character’s dialogue almost entirely in Spanish where the other speaks English. It’s a lovely way to distinguish the perceived difference between the two girls and, as they learn each other’s words for plants, instruments, and the weather, they form a fast bond. Liv Licursi and Ana Karina Cano are delightful in their respective roles, and they work constantly to maintain the energy and level of audience interaction required to keep the attention of tiny tots.
Mention must be made of the music for this is a rock musical after all. The songs with music direction by Daniela Rodriguez Chavez are catchy and easy to join in for a sing along. There’s lots of opportunities for children to clap and cheer and they do.
A delightful intro to music, language, and friendship for the little ones.
