I’ll admit: I was feeling a little burnt out on all-things-holiday when I walked into the Indiana Repertory Theatre to see one of their December performances {those multi-tasking friends have TWO shows running right now!}. My shopping list had grown, the tree we bought looks Charlie Brown movie-worthy and coordinating all of our family gatherings was giving me grey hair.
Entering stage right: Peter Rabbit And Me at IRT.
This delightful, 55-minute children’s play was a complete treat and the perfect way to escape the holiday hulabaloo. So much so that I have now seen it twice.
This show is held in the “The Cabaret” – a smaller theater setting on the 3rd level of the IRT building. The room is setup with chairs around the sides, and a large carpeted area for floor seats {parents, wear comfy clothes if you purchase a floor spot!}. And don’t fret when you catch sight of the stage which is also floor-level: The actors move fluidly around the room during this play so you are bound to have great view of the entire show wherever you end up.
Peter Rabbit And Me at IRT is the story of Beatrix Potter and her imagination. It splits between the Potter house where you’re introduced to her brother, governess and father, then shifts into her imaginary tale of Peter Rabbit and Flopsy, Mopsy… you remember the rest.
I loved that the actors all play double duty – Mr. Potter is also Mr. McGregor, Beatrix is also Peter Rabbit – as well as stagehands switching out the set from the Potter house to Peter’s den.
I loved how the floor audience becomes a piece of the performance as they’re seated in Mr. McGregor’s Garden.
I loved the mix of drama and comedy which had giggles rising from every corner. Mr. McGregor is a total hoot.
I loved that the IRT spent time before the performance educating visitors in theater etiquette {“Sit criss cross applesauce!,” “Watch the play with your eyes, your ears and your hearts!”, etc}.
But I mainly loved the excitement from my daughter Emerson who is now convinced she wants to become a ‘star like that big girl Piper.’ {The actress who plays Beatrix/Peter.}
This play is a great timeout from the holiday hustle – the only downside is that it ends December 20th.
MORE INFO: Peter Rabbit And Me runs through 12/20 at the Indiana Repertory Theatre, located at 140 W. Washington Street in downtown Indianapolis. Tickets range from $8-$20 and all ages are welcome. Call {317} 635-5252 or visit irtlive.com/ for details.
