Review of Bud, Not Buddy by Caitlin, age 17

I must start by saying that the Children’s Theatre’s newest production, Bud, Not Buddy, thoroughly impressed me. As an elementary student, I enjoyed Christopher Paul Curtis’s novel about a young boy with spunk and wit to spare and was glad to see that the Children’s Theatre did such a wonderful book justice. While the book is narrated by Bud, the actors in the production usually speak about their actions in the 3rd person (with the exception of Bud). I found this off-putting at first, but I soon realized it was really the only effective way to translate the story to the stage. The book’s most important events are portrayed in the play and the play still communicates the Depression-era details in costuming, set, etc. that made the novel so poignant. I found, for the most part, the characters and their actions to be believable. I must applaud the cast for doing such an amazing job handling the Shakespearean-esque stage directions, with one actor playing multiple characters. Nathan Barlow’s performance as Bud, I felt, really captured the essence and personality of the character. On another note, the set was meticulously assembled to both reflect the Depression-era landscape and serve as a multipurpose background for various scenes throughout the play. The detail of the urban building background worked well with the minimalist onstage set. I loved the use of the metal wire instruments and large floodlights as car headlights for props. I also enjoyed the play’s music. I felt the use of jazz fit well with the themes and setting of the play. As I watched the play, I felt joy, fear, sadness, and content along with Bud. I believe my ability to do this is due to the, again, wonderful performance by Nathan Barlow. The moments of humor came when Bud presented his “Rules and Things for Having a Funner Life and Making a Better Liar Out of Yourself”, in part to the ingenious use of a sports-style announcer. Overall, I heartily enjoyed the play and believed that the Children’s Theatre has created another outstanding production. As I left the theatre inspired by Bud’s infectious optimism, I felt as though, like Bud, another “door” had been opened for me. This time I have been introduced to a new theatre-going experience: engaging, innovative, and quality productions from the Children’s Theatre Company.

- Caitlin, 17