Make plans to bring the entire family to catch Disney’s “My Son Pinocchio”, a spin on the original classic tale of the puppet turned boy featuring a multi-generational cast of talented performers ranging from 9-70 years old.
“My Son Pinocchio” is a twist to the original classic. The show tells the story, but from Geppetto’s point of view. The story gives a different perspective on what Geppetto wanted and provides a good life lesson in the process. “I liked the message, that it’s not only the kid who has to learn, but also the dad that has to learn too; how to be a dad,” said Director Gary Daigneault.
The Musical Director is Bianca Stoker with Lisa Hodgson as the Choreographer. Rounding out the production team are Stage Manager Mike Lipsitz, Assistant Director Cindy Daigneault, Costumer Tera Bottorff, sound design by Ron Bottorff and lighting by Nena Jimenez. Cam D-Angeles assists the director while Tim Corvin helps with building sets.
Geppetto is played by Theatre 29 cast regular John Pollnow while Theater 29 favorite Robin Wilson is playing the main role of the “Blue Fairy”. Pinocchio is played by 10-year-old Eli Young, a Summer Youth program alumnus. The delightful band of fairies are Maryam Langdon, Kimberly Sonntag, Britney Vachon-LaGuardia, and Samantha Stevens. Newcomer Adam Shows brings a unique take to his portrayal of puppeteer Stromboli while Joe Rego brings out the inventor Buonragazzo. Tiffany Crocker and Dennis “Easy” Boos are the Giovanni’s, looking for the perfect child while Kat Cheek is the infamous Ringleader.
Set in an Italian village, The show consists of a little over 20 different musical acts with a 15-minute intermission. Most of the cast play multiple roles as the story ranges from Geppetto’s toy store to Pleasure Island. Filling out the adult ensemble are Lula Allen and Michele Alley. The youth ensemble, ranging from 9-15, is made up of Eli Amaro, Julia Bazan, Donivan Cox, Harper Crow, Kaleb Sinclair, Nolan Viloria, and Ely Zhen.
The story is a flashback of toymaker Geppetto’s first days with son Pinocchio. Geppetto makes a wish to the five fairies that his puppet would become alive too and be his son. The fairies grant his wish and make the puppet, Pinocchio, a real boy. Pinocchio is different from most children which Geppetto resents. Geppetto regrets ever getting Pinocchio after he doesn’t act as expected and begs to return him to the fairies. After flashing back through the days to show the fairies Pinocchio’s poor behavior, Geppetto realizes how special Pinocchio really is and that it’s him that needs to change and not his son. Geppetto comes to his senses too late though and must fight to get Pinocchio back before losing him forever.
“My Son Pinocchio” runs weekends from May 12-28 with Friday and Saturday performances at 7:00pm and Sunday Matinees at 2:30pm. Theatre 29 is at 73637 Sullivan Road in the City of Twentynine palms. Tickets are $15.00 for Regular admission, $12.50 for seniors and military, and $10.00 for children under 12 and students with ID ( there is a service charge). Tickets are available online at www.theatre29.org or by calling the Theatre 29 Box Office at 760-361-4151.
Theatre 29 is an all-volunteer non-profit (501(c)3) Community Theatre Organization formed in 1999.
