 | 2nd Grade’s A Stage |
PLM got a front row seat for the preview of the “The Brand New Kid” that mixed music, theatre and kindness at curtain call.
(SInce writing this story, South Coast Repertory has wrapped their June performances of “A Brand New Kid,” but you can always pick up the book, a sweet, relatable read by Katie Couric (the story below). Other SCR summer fun includes “The Secret Garden,” coming in August; see details on the PLM calendar. Plus, there’s the Summer Acting Workshop, where kids and teens build self-esteem and confidence—grades 3-12.)
The “A Brand New Kid” story on the stage ...
We sat front row. I saw my daughter’s eyes widen as the actors hit the stage and colorful sets magically moved about. The show brings to light life in the second grade … all the mix-match outfits, enthusiasm, insecurities and genuine goofy antics. Kid’isms spewed with language of “do-overs,” “ignoramuses” and “jinx” jabs, as dialogue was exchanged and the stage metamorphosized into a day in the life from wake to school to sleep.
Lazlo, the new kid in school from Hungary, took a verbal smackdown, taunting and teasing from the other kids for his accent, attire and unusual smarts. When fellow student and sweet-hearted, Ellie, stood up for the newbie, the other kids turned against her too. By curtain call, the cast of characters realized “everybody’s a weirdo” in their own way. Well said.
It was fun entertainment with a message of tolerance all parents would welcome. All ages enjoyed, from 3 to teen, and boy to girl. And parents, as well as the kids, provided the real laughtrack as the crazy Lunchlady did her thing and the 2nd graders kidded about.
PLM’s post-show Cast Chat with kind kid, “Ellie”:
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