Imagination Stage is known for presenting the highest quality theater for young audiences, and Petite Rouge: A Cajun Red Riding Hood is no exception. This inventive adaptation by Joan Cushing, based on the book written by Mike Artell and illustrated by Jim Harris, puts a Louisiana twist on the classic fairy tale. Our heroine is a young duck named Petite Rouge (Jordan Leah Embrack), donning the titular red cape, and the Big Bad Wolf is now an alligator chef named Claude (Michael Perrie Jr.).
In this updated story, Mrs. Duck (Edima Essien) sends Petite Rouge and her best friend, a smart-alecky cat named TeJean (Stephen Russell Murray), to deliver gumbo and hot sauce to Rouge’s ailing Grandmere (Aja Goode). Along the way, Petite Rouge decides to take a detour to see a bit more of the world. Concurrently, we learn that Claude is absolutely famished, and upon seeing our heroes, he resolves that having duck on the menu is the only way to satisfy his hunger. Petite Rouge and TeJean try to evade Claude, meeting some Gator Trappers (Carl L. Williams, Essien, and Goode) who offer to assist in Claude’s capture. The chase takes the pair onto a riverboat and through a Mardi Gras celebration in New Orleans. The final scenes at Grandmere’s house have a spicy twist, giving our heroes a new way to triumph over the dastardly gator.
The spirited score transitions through musical styles, including bluesy tunes, rollicking zydeco beats, uplifting Disney-esque ballads, and even a dirge. The exceptional vocals of the ensemble, Maurice Johnson’s exuberant choreography, and the deft hand of music director Deborah Jacobson complement each song’s unique style.
Jordan Leah Embrack as Petite Rouge has dazzling vocals and infectious energy. “Waiting for Life to Start!” (the song presenting the duck’s greatest desire) showcases Embrack’s vast talents, singing with optimism and joy reminiscent of many a Disney favorite. Murray’s TeJean is the perfect compatriot for our heroine. His dance and tumbling skills were on display during the Mardi Gras scene, wowing the audience.
Michael Perrie Jr.’s Claude was exceptional, playing the villain with a mix of comedy and playful malice. Claude adopts several disguises in his efforts to trick the little duck and cat, each distinct and with a dash of hilarity. Every moment Perrie Jr. was on stage elevated the production. Finally, the ensemble delivered, with Essien, Goode, and Williams moving effortlessly through a multitude of characters and critters. This trio drives the plot forward, singing five installments of “The Ballad of Petite Rouge” to let us know where we’re headed next.
The acting isn’t the only stellar part of this fun production; the production design is truly outstanding. Sophia Tepermeister’s set is beautifully evocative of a weeping willow in a Louisiana swamp and is the perfect functional playground for the actors to inhabit. Andrea “Dre” Moore’s props were whimsical and set the scene perfectly. The costumes (designed by Paris Francesca) give a playful nod to the creatures portrayed by each performer without becoming a full caricature.
Christian D. Henrriquez’s lighting was a visual delight, with eye-catching colors and patterns to enhance the vibes in the bayou and at the Mardi Gras celebration. Sam Crawford’s sound design was essential in creating an immersive feel throughout our little duck’s journey.
Further kudos must be given to director Nathaniel P. Claridad. The production was seamless, and each scene and musical number was captivating and clear. Everything came together to create a fun, upbeat, and charming production.
Petite Rouge: A Cajun Red Riding Hood is sure to delight audiences of all ages. I attended with my five-year-old child and spouse — and all three of us bopped along to every song and giggled with delight at Claude’s antics. This is a show not to miss.
Running Time: Approximately one hour, without intermission.
Petite Rouge: A Cajun Red Riding Hood plays through February 8, 2025, at Imagination Stage, 4908 Auburn Ave, Bethesda, MD. Shows are Saturdays and Sundays at 1:00 and 4:00. Special holiday week performances are December 26 and 27 at 11:00 and 2:00, December 28 and 29 at 1:00 and 4:00, December 20 at 11:00 and 2:00, and December 31 at 11:00. Tickets ($12 and up) can be purchased online, in person at Imagination Stage’s box office, or by calling the box office at 301-280-1660.
Best for ages 5+.
COVID Safety: Masks are optional.
Petite Rouge: A Cajun Red Riding Hood
Based on the book Petite Rouge by Mike Artell, illustrated by Jim Harris
Book, Music, and Lyrics by Joan Cushing
Directed by Nathaniel P. Claridad
