LINCOLNSHIRE, Ill.—It has no special effects, cumbersome sets, loud explosions, scary bad guys, or philosophical drama, but “A Year with Frog and Toad” has been popular since it premiered in 2002. The explanation for its success is apparent in the exuberant, enchanting family-friendly revival now playing at the Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire.
Adapted from children’s author and illustrator Arnold Lobel’s beloved 1976 book, “Frog and Toad All Year,” the story was turned into a musical by Robert Reale. He composed the music with his brother Willie Reale, who wrote the book and lyrics. The children’s classic comes through on stage as a playful romp that follows the adventures of a cheerful frog and a worrisome toad through a four-season year.
The musical comes together with captivating vignettes of the relationship between two amphibians, as they come together to play, work, and live. It begins as they hibernate in winter, wake up in spring, and play through summer and fall. Another year comes full circle as winter approaches. Throughout the seasons they enjoy baking cookies, raking leaves, flying kites, playing at the beach, and sledding in the snow.
Unlike some children’s shows that may focus on magic or plenty of action, this production centers on emotional connections and how friendship is more important than differences. Frog is a patient optimist while Toad is on the anxious side. But the two accept flaws in each other without trying to change them, which is the secret to their relationship.
Taking Set Design Seriously
While this children’s show is ideal for 3–10 year-olds, the Marriott doesn’t hold back on its staging. Talented artists create a wonderful, colorful environment that resists modern anxieties and cynicism in favor of calm and contentment.Set designer Wynn Lee does a terrific job of creating an inviting backdrop on the theater-in-the-round configuration. Lighting by Conchita Avitia creates a bright and positive atmosphere. The costumes by Christina Leinicke makes a playful use of shells and tails that are whimsically zany.
Directed with a sharp sense of humor and sensitivity by Elizabeth Romero, the show provides plenty of comedy. As is true of humanity, no two people are alike. Indeed, Frog and Toad are direct opposites. Frog, played adorably by Jason Richards looks at life through a positive perspective, while Toad, portrayed with comic flare by Karl Hamilton, has a tendency to see the world as a glass half-full.
Many New Friends
The pair enjoy the company of some interesting and wonderful animal friends that include Mouse played with squeaky delight by Sunnie Eraso, Turtle played by a slow-talking Marta Bady, and slow-moving Snail who takes forever to deliver an important letter, evoked by Tommy Rivera-Vega.Frog and Toad, and their friends, especially enjoy singing and dancing, which provides some wonderful moments in the show. With music direction and sound by Ryan Nelson and choreography by Elizabeth Romero, tunes such as “I’m Coming Out of My Shell,” “Cookies,” and “Getta Loada Toad” are upbeat highlights.
As is the case in all good children’s classics, there is a moral to the story. This story demonstrates that you can still be friends with those with whom you have a difference of opinion or outlook on life. Not only can you like those who aren’t just like you; you can love them as well.
The kids I saw at the show bubbled over with giggles and laughter as their favorite characters came to life on stage. Even the family members that accompanied them seemed to get a kick out of the antics of the performers. In our sometimes somber age, it was a joy to watch so many people having such a good time.
