A royal welcome A royal welcome (September 03, 2004)

'A Little Princess' offers a memorable theatrical experience

by Jeanie Forte

T heatreWorks' latest production, "A Little Princess," has the sparkle and brilliance of an exquisite gem, even if it is still a little in the rough.

If originators Brian Crawley (book and lyrics) and Andrew Lippa (music) can polish and fine-tune this delightful, heartwarming musical, they will have a huge Broadway hit on their hands.

Crawley and Lippa are aided by an expert production team, including award-winning director Susan H. Schulman, scene designer Heidi Ettinger, choreographer Andy Blankenbuehler and costume designer Catherine Zuber. I mention these names here so you'll recognize them come Tony time a year from now. These artists and others have put together an amazing feast for the eye, ear and heart-- a beautiful, memorable theatrical experience.

Based on the Frances Hodgson Burnett children's novel, "A Little Princess" chronicles the life of Sara Crewe, the daughter of a wealthy gentleman whose charmed life takes a dramatic turn when her father is tragically killed in action. Set during the 19th century, the production sweeps from the diamond-studded reaches of Timbuktu to the glittering coronation of Queen Victoria.

That it's not fully finished is evident in a few details: Act One is too long and could easily be trimmed by a number or two; a few transitions feel somewhat disjointed; and the ending comes about rather suddenly.

But these are tweaks that can be managed easily by such a talented team. And these shortcomings don't distract from one's enjoyment of the show -- in fact, it's a privilege to witness the birth of a musical that's headed for Broadway.

In this case, the artistic payoff is equally huge. From the astonishing opening number to the sweetly sentimental finale, the terrific ensemble and spectacle draw you into a richly imagined world. It's poised to be the "Annie" of today, with several numbers that will easily become standards, such as "Let Your Heart Be Your Compass," "Live Out Loud" and "Soldier On." If Crawley and Lippa bring in a crisper, tighter version, every theatre in the nation will want to produce it.

Much has been made of the liberties that were taken with Burnett's creation, but as a longtime fan of the book I wasn't bothered by these alterations. They're wholly within the spirit of the original, and bring out the best of the book's true heart. The lead character of Sara, especially as played here by Mackenzie Mauzy, shines brightly as a force of goodness and honesty, a vision of independence, generosity and compassion in a society bent on conformity. Her fiercely fought-for love and hope should remind us all of what's truly important.

Mauzy is a find -- a perfect realization of a young girl transitioning from childhood into adolescence, with a fantastic presence and big voice. She's well-matched by Will Chase as her father, Captain Crewe, with boyish good looks and a gorgeous velvety voice.

There isn't a weak link in the cast. The African ensemble, headed by C. Kelly Wright as Aljana and Casey Ford Alexander as Pasko, is amazing, dancing with tireless energy and enthusiasm each time they're on. The inventiveness and variety of Blankenbuehler's choreography must be extremely challenging, and they nail it. Wright and Pasko do a great job bringing their characters to life and they shine in their solos. Locals Dawn K. Burroughs and Ralph William Boone also bring charm to their cameos.

The Brits are equally fabulous. Kimberly King actually makes the evil Miss Minchin a complex, even sympathetic character, and injects wonderful humor into the proceedings. Her vocal growls are worth pages of dialogue. Molly Bell is sweet and funny as her sister, Miss Ameli, and Lianne Marie Dobbs captures the feisty spirit of an insightful Queen Victoria.

Six girls of various ages and size make up Miss Minchin's students, fulfilling and fleshing out the book's characters with marvelous verve and playfulness. Standouts include Lyndsay Faye as the churlish Lavinia, Courtney Stokes as clumsy Ermengarde and adorable Lizzi Jones as Lottie. Remy Zaken does a superb turn as the servant Becky. All of the young performers demonstrate first-rate professionalism.

"A Little Princess" delighted and moved me, brought me laughter and tears and transported me into a surprising and sumptuous world filled with trial, hope and unshakeable spirit. Even as a diamond in the rough it already shines brightly.

What: TheatreWorks presents the world premiere of "A Little Princess." Based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, the play features a score by Andrew Lippa and book by Brian Crawley.

Where: Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St.

When: Through Sept. 19. Show times are Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. (Sept. 7 only); Wednesdays through Fridays at 8 p.m.; Saturdays at 8 p.m. (additional 2 p.m. performances Sept. 4 and 18); Sundays at 2 p.m. (7 p.m. only on Sept. 12). "Visual Voice" audio-described performances will take place Sept. 17-18 at 8 p.m. and Sept. 19 at 2 p.m.

Cost: Tickets are $20-$50; savings are available for youth, students, seniors and members.

Info: Call (650) 903-6000 or visit theatreworks.org.

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