Reviewed by Heather Dowling
When I heard about this kid-friendly puppet musical telling the story of a dog who runs away, I remember thinking, “A puppet show for kids at Fringe? Really?” Oh, yes… really.
RUNAWAY RUE is really entertaining. Really heartwarming. Really one of the most professionally executed musicals I’ve seen pulled off in 60 minutes at The Hollywood Fringe. My face was hurting from smiling after the first 30 minutes, and I found happy tears by the end. And the kiddos in the audience alongside me were clearly captivated, being offered gentle wisdom about family, friendship, belonging and the meaning of “furever.”
When Rue’s Furever mom drops a bombshell—they’re moving across the country!— Rue is one devastated dog. Even Rue’s Fairy Dogmother can’t change her mind about moving to Hollywoof, especially when Rue learns she’s moving in with a new step-dad and his perfect puppy named Jack.
It was a delight to witness. The puppets and puppeteering were wonderful, but as an actor and sometimes singer, I was knocked back by the fantastic human performances “supporting” the furry cast. These actors brought to life such a vivid and playful world and the vocal performances were fantastic.
I am now convinced that I would love to see more family friendly, kid appropriate shows at Fringe after seeing the broad smiles on the faces of children and their parents as they enjoyed a LIVE performance, on stage, together. I am certain that some of those kiddos discovered – for the first time maybe – what we Fringers already know: live theatre is magical.
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