CHICAGO—Readers of Don Freeman’s children’s books “Corduroy” and “A Pocket for Corduroy” will find the theatricalization of the little bear an adorable enchantment. It’s now playing at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Those who haven’t read the books will be inspired to do so. For little ones who have never seen a live theater performance, this show is a great introduction to the wonders of stage magic.
Adapted by Barry Kornhauser, the play is recommended for ages 3 to 6, but the parents of tots seemed to delight in the production as much as did their kids. That’s because this 60-minute production’s plot connects with adults and children: The little corduroy bear needs to find a button to feel worthy of finding a home. Indeed, the theme of the story is that we’re important, flaws and all. Even if we’re not perfect, we should be accepted as we are.
The show begins with a teddy bear that’s propped up on a shelf in the toy section of Freeman’s Department Store. He’s lonely and is hoping for a friend that will pick him up and take him home. But Corduroy believes he is being ignored and passed over by shoppers because his green corduroy outfit looks worn and is missing a button.
One day, though, little Lisa stops by and falls in love with him. Corduroy is so excited but there’s a problem. Lisa wants to buy him, but her mother is low on funds. Lisa’s mother tells her that if she does more household chores, she might get a bigger allowance that she could use to buy the bear.
Corduroy doesn’t understand why Lisa isn’t buying him now. He thinks it’s because he’s missing a button, which makes him imperfect. Corduroy is desperate to become more valuable so the little girl will want him. He goes on a search throughout the store to find a button that will make him whole and persuade Lisa to take him.
A Whimsical Production
Directed with wit and warmth by Amber Mak, the show engages from start to finish. There’s a delightful cartoonish look to the production, which has been crafted by a talented team. These artists’ work include Jeffrey D. Kmiec’s colorful set, Greg Hofmann’s evocative lighting, Satya Chavez’s great sound design, and Christine Pascual’s character-delineating costumes.
“Corduroy,” though, is particularly charming because of excellent performances. Demetra Dee, who plays Lisa, wonderfully captures the wide-eyed innocence of childhood; Celeste M. Cooper comes through with a loving presence as Lisa’s mom; Danielle Davis has a terrific comic touch as the Night Guard; and the duo of Ryan Huemmer and Kat Harvey are great as the Clowns, who not only serve as narrators but also show off athletic prowess as they swirl across the stage.
The highlight performance is that of Jean Claudio as Corduroy. The featured star, he demonstrates some fancy acrobatic skills and superb circus-style feats that have him doing flips, somersaults, and gravity-bending flying over a balcony. It had the kids in the audience in breathless, jaw-dropping attention. At the same time, Mr. Claudio brings a compelling emotion to his role that makes him convincing as a soft, cuddly Teddy Bear come to life.
Some of the show’s cutest moments are when Corduroy calls for a “button” and each time he does, the little ones in the audience scream out “Button” back to him.
“Corduroy” not only makes for an engaging fun-time but also offers a profound message about the importance of friendship and of valuing oneself.
