VALDOSTA —
Peach State Summer Theatre’s “Go, Dog. Go!” is a children’s show, but the entire family should find this hour-long musical amusing and laugh-out-loud funny.
From the show’s earliest moments, actor Robert Teasdale sets the tone for the show. He provides a brilliant mix of prepared material, improvisation, ad-lib and slapstick through audience interaction.
Revealing what is intended to be a black-and-white spotted dog costume, a child yells out, “You’re a cow!” Teasdale plays the moment beautifully — it’s live theatre, after all. As delighted children yell additional comments, he handles these unexpected moments with a smiling sense of humor and a well-coiled wit.
Teasdale’s introduction to the show prepares audiences for a comic evening of theatre based on the well-known 1961 P.D. Eastman children’s book of the same name, “Go, Dog. Go!”
For anyone wondering how this limited-word children’s book can be translated into a theatre piece, the talented ensemble cast answers that question with a non-stop barrage of physical comedy, dance moves, singing, funny voices and funny costumes, all interspersed with audience interaction. Given there is no plot, Teasdale, Kelly Methven, Krista Severeid, Megan Wheeler, Madison Johnson, Will Sedwick Dozier, Sarah Mitchel, Shelby Nichols, and Christiani Pitts have a wonderful rapport as the show’s assortment of dogs.
Director-choreographer Barbara Hartwig keeps everything flowing with ease. The show moves from one bit to another, one piece to another, from start to finish with a fluid grace. The syncopation of the “Up-Down” sign piece is proof at how well Hartwig planned, directed and choreographed this show, but everything comes across with a sense of spontaneous fun.
In addition to the laughs, there is also a surreal circus quality to the show. “Night on the Water” is a fine example as one dog swims, appearing to float above a shimmering blue surface, while three dogs provide an operatic harmonic howl. Tom Hansen’s scenery, Genny Wynn’s lighting, Esther Iverson’s costumes, Anna Warda Alex’s sound work, and Michael Driggers’ technical direction make these unique, dream moments possible.
The cast also interacts with the capable orchestra under the direction of Paul J. Guilbeau. It is a pleasure to both see and hear the orchestra, as PSST!’s live orchestra is usually hidden behind the scenes.
“Go, Dog. Go!” is a blast for audiences of all ages, but it is a show that youngsters should truly enjoy. On the evening of this review, the show had the youngsters participating, sitting on the edges of seats, and staying after to meet all of the actors.
That should be enough to make any parents, Go, Dog. Go! to see this show.
Peach State Summer Theatre’s “Go, Dog. Go!” continues 2 p.m. June 23, 27, 30, July 4, 7, 11, 14, Sawyer Theatre, Valdosta State University Fine Arts Building, corner of Oak and Brookwood. Reservations, more information: Call (229) 259-7770; or visit the website www.valdosta.edu/psst The Valdosta Daily Times is PSST!’s corporate sponsor.
This review is based on the Friday, June 15, opening night performance.
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