Charlotte's Web

Charlotte’s Web is based on the favourite children’s book of the same name by E.B. White, about a runt pig rescued by a little girl, then saved from the butcher’s block by a loving and literate spider.

There is lots to like in this musical performed by children from ten to fifteen. The production looks superb, with a picture-book set constructed by David and Jason Wall, beautifully painted. The costumes, especially the animals (Fran Gordon and Cassidy Kempster) are gorgeous and the specialist makeup (Cassidy Kempster again) is lovely. There was thoughtful attention to detail with props and set dressing.

Enthusiastic performances abound. Solid acting performances from central character Wilbur, a likeable and genuine Sean Smith, title role Charlotte, a mature and elegant Kate McCracken and young heroine Fern, a convincing and nuanced Ella Hagon.

Standouts in the cast of twenty-six - the vast majority with speaking roles - include the team of farm animals who formed a lovely sub-ensemble. Cameron Clear as shady Templeton the Rat coped professionally with a continually malfunctioning microphone. Jorja Austin and Ben Lane worked well together as Goose and Gander, with Macy Waldram and Ella Simpson were lovely as Sheep and Lamb.  

Cameron Taylor was memorable as Homer Zuckerman, with well-acted cameos from Jack Churchman (The Photographer and Judge) and Denver Havercroft (The Concessionaire), but all of the performers were working hard and were nicely focused. Choreography, by Celeste Underhill and Krispin Maesalu was nicely executed.

Charlotte’s Web’s book is by Jason Robinette and features music by Charles Strouse. I don’t feel that this is Strouse’s strongest work, and it is very vocally challenging, despite the efforts of Musical Director Krispin Maesalu, who also led a 5 piece band. 

Fans of E.B. White’s novel and families will enjoy this earnest and fun production of Charlotte’s Web.

Kimberley Shaw