NextStop Theatre Company has been producing theatre for young audiences for almost 30 years. Their most recent show is a sweet and enjoyable story called Balloonacy from Playwright Barry Kornhauser. Amy Baskra, and Jaclyn Young co-directed the piece, with design by Evan Hoffman, and Max Frost as the production Stage Manager.
An old woman, played by Amy Baska (on Sundays the role is performed by Jaclyn Young), goes about her usual day, which the audience right-away learns is her birthday. Using mime, Baska interacts with a curious red balloon that has suddenly appeared outside her window. Despite the woman’s hesitation, and with a little help from the audience, she makes a new friend and discovers that loneliness can be conquered through the power of imagination.
The charming show is targeted for children, ages 1-5. There are many opportunities for the young audience to interact with the old woman, as well as unexpected moments to tickle even the bigger people. The youngest of my boys is 7, but all three still had a delightful time watching the heart-warming story unfold. Our family unanimously voted the best part to be a hilarious sequence involving an incident with a cupcake, but I will not give the scene away.
NextStop Theatre has created the perfect experience for the entire family to enjoy. Balloonacy is short and simple; A lovely tale that easily captures the attention of the tiniest of audience members and holds their focus until the end.
Don’t miss this adorable production that teaches that the potential for friendship is everywhere, as long as you are willing to accept it.
Running Time: 30 minutes, with no intermission.
Balloonacy plays through October 9, 2016, at NextStop Theatre Company’s Industrial Strength Theatre — 269 Sunset Park Drive, in Herndon, VA. For tickets, call OvationTix at (866) 811-4111, or purchase them online.
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