Charlotte's Web

Based on the Book by E. B. White
Adapted by Joseph Robinette
  
Imagination Stage 2017

Director: Kate Bryer
Musical Director: Deborah Jacobson
Movement Director: Shanara Gabrielle
Scenic Designer: Andrew Cohen
Costume Designer: Robert Croghan
Lighting Designer: Sarah Tundermann
Sound Designer: Joe Payne

"In this beloved classic (now infused with live music!), Fern, a soft-hearted farm girl, forms an unlikely bond with Wilbur, a charismatic pig. At the Zuckerman Farm, Wilbur meets a silly goose, a moody sheep, a selfish rat, and Charlotte, a clever spider. In an effort to save her friend, Charlotte weaves flattering messages about him into her web that cause a sensation in the small town."

The traditional story as a slice of Americana. A truly actor generated piece, each performing multiple roles and playing instruments live. Stunning integration and performance of silks. Music included traditional folk tunes, New World Symphony, plenty of Aaron Copeland, and Mozart's Oboe Quartet, which was inspiration for E.B. White.  The sound design mostly consisted of reinforcement, with a few effects to create texture and enhance mimed action.

Review: The cast of six play guitar, banjo, violin, harmonica, and flute, joining in the music-making with Deborah Jacobson, the Arranger and Music Director, who also plays piano and clarinet on-stage. The result is a wonderfully textured sound-scape that adds immeasurably to the evening — and that includes folk songs that my kids know from their Pete Seeger CD. (Joseph Payne designed sound.)…This is one of the best pieces of theatre for young audiences I’ve seen and I would recommend it whole-heartedly. And not only for young audiences. I know a lot of people who love that book and would really dig this version, and who would be as moved as I was by evening’s end. -by Christopher Henley, DC Theatre Scene Article Link

Review: The set, costumes, lighting, and sound design are expertly curated.  Joseph Payne and Sarah Tundermann deserve kudos for their respective sound and lighting designs. They guide us through the emotional journey of Wilbur and Charlotte’s friendship and layer the world Kate Bryer creates with texture and authenticity. -by Sherrita Wilkins, DC Metro Theatre Arts  Article Link

Audio clips of the live mix are not included due to Actor's Equity restrictions, and live recordings do not accurately represent the theatre space.
Please check with producing organizations if interested in quality of the mix, which I proudly stand behind.




_{Photos by Joe's iPhone :)}