Review: MADAGASCAR-THE MUSICAL at The Growing Stage is Sheer Delight

"I know there's got to be more than just this zoo."

By Marty the Zebra in MADAGASCAR - The Musical

There's a wonderful and whimsical adventure that you don't want to miss happening now at The Growing Stage, The Children's Theatre of New Jersey. MADAGASCAR - A Musical Adventure is a show for the entire family. Directed by the Theatre's Founder and Executive Director, Stephen L. Fredericks the production features musical direction by Stephen Fox, choreography by Jillian Petrie and a delightful cast. The show is full of fantasy, friendship, and fun. It's a great finale for the company's "Dare to Dream" season.

MADAGASCAR - A Musical Adventure is based on the DreamWorks animated motion picture. It has a book by Kevin Del Aquila, with original music and lyrics by George Noriega and Joel Someillan.

The show tells the story of Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the Hippo, and the perky Penguins that escape from the Central Park Zoo in search of wide-open spaces. Hardly organized, they soon find themselves on board a ship bound for Madagascar. It is there that their escapades continue as they encounter Lemurs led by King Julien and the threat of the evil Foosas. Life outside the zoo isn't quite what the animals expected as they experience many new situations.

The Growing Stage has assembled a cast that is ideal in their roles. Every minute of the show is pure enjoyment as the animal characters sing and dance their way into your heart. You'll be charmed by James Ross as Alex the Lion; Davis Cameron Lemley as Marty the Zebra; Allie Ambriano as Gloria the Hippo; Kirk Jasen Lambert as Melman the Giraffe. Playing multiple roles are Ryan Hagan, Brandon Wiener, Sharon Romano, Nikole Rizzo, Grace Noel, and Na'Jee Tariq.

The Production Staff has done a great job of creating the show's colorful, captivating setting. They include scenic, puppet design & painting by Perry Arthur Kroeger. The Lighting Designer is S.L. Fredericks; Costume Designer is Lori B. Lawrence; Costume Assistant, Allison Takayama; Stage Manager, Casey Druga; Assistant Stage Manager, Davis Cameron Lemley; Light Board Operator, Angela Kovacs.

MADAGASCAR - A Musical Adventure is an exciting production that is full of surprises. Gather your group and plan a spring theatre outing. Don't miss being a part of this rollicking journey.

The Growing Stage, The Children's Theatre of New Jersey is located in the Historic Palace Theatre on Route 183 in Netcong, New Jersey. MADAGASCAR-A Musical Adventure runs for 60 minutes plus one 15-minute intermission. The show has performances Saturday and Sunday at 4:00 PM. Tickets are $25 for Adults, $20 for Seniors and $15 for Children. To purchase visit their website at http://www.growingstage.com/ or contact the Box Office at (973) 347-4946. Special group rates are available.

Photo Credit: Jerry Dalia

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