‘Corduroy’: Warm Fuzzies for the Whole Family

‘Corduroy’: Warm Fuzzies for the Whole Family
Corduroy (Jean Claudio) discovers he's missing a button, in "Corduroy." Liz Lauren
Updated:
0:00

CHICAGO—Readers of Don Freeman’s children’s books “Corduroy” and “A Pocket for Corduroy” will find the theatricalization of the little bear an adorable enchantment. It’s now playing at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Those who haven’t read the books will be inspired to do so. For little ones who have never seen a live theater performance, this show is a great introduction to the wonders of stage magic.

Adapted by Barry Kornhauser, the play is recommended for ages 3 to 6, but the parents of tots seemed to delight in the production as much as did their kids. That’s because this 60-minute production’s plot connects with adults and children: The little corduroy bear needs to find a button to feel worthy of finding a home. Indeed, the theme of the story is that we’re important, flaws and all. Even if we’re not perfect, we should be accepted as we are.

Betty Mohr
Betty Mohr
Author
As an arts writer and movie/theater/opera critic, Betty Mohr has been published in the Chicago Sun-Times, The Chicago Tribune, The Australian, The Dramatist, the SouthtownStar, the Post Tribune, The Herald News, The Globe and Mail in Toronto, and other publications.