Review: "Bridge To Terabithia", Westerville South High School

   “Bridge to Terabithia” is a sweet, simple show designed to appeal to young pre-teenagers.  Based on a Newbery award-winning piece of children’s literature by Katherine Paterson published in 1973.  It tells the story of an awkward, self-conscious fifth grader Jesse Aarons who is befriended by his new neighbor, tomboy Leslie Burke.  They create a secret fantasy kingdom for themselves which Leslie dubs Terabithia.  It is located in the woods across a creek near their farms. Jesse and Leslie go there to escape and strategize about how they will deal with annoying family and school mates.  The name is similar to the island of Terebinthia from the C.S. Lewis Narnian series.  There were two film versions before the story was adapted by Patterson and Stefanie Tolan  into a stage play with music by Steve Liebman. 

   Under the guidance of Director Matthew Wolfe and Technical Derrick McPeak, Westerville South High School’s current production features Jackson Shewmake and Cherish Myers in the central roles of the two best friends.

    Shewmake is bright and clever and has a decent singing voice as Jesse. Myers brings much skill, grace, charm and excellent vocals to the role of Leslie.  They are supported by a capable ensemble.  Caroline Warrick energizes the role of the annoying little sister Maybelle.  I love Kandy Boakye’s attitude and characterization as class bully Janice Avery.  Hellen Mwangi brings a sweet spark and a pleasant singing voice to the role of Fifth grade teacher Mrs. Edmunds.

   Rudimentary set design and simple furnishings serve the action nicely.  The central leafy, swivels from a tree trunk in the woods to become the Terabithia escape. 

    Beautiful background projections help create the sense of various locations: a field on the farm, the woods, a classroom and the Aarons living room.

     While not a lavish, sophisticated production, the show is a worthy offering among community and high school shows. At 90 minutes, with the intermission, it seems a pleasant piece of theater. It provides good training and experience for these students and is something that the cast, crew, staff, family and friends can be proud of.  My husband and I enjoyed it.