Review: 'Twas the Night Before Christmas at Theatre for Young America

I love taking my children to shows at Theatre for Young America. Producing plays for Kansas City's youngest audiences for nearly 40 years, I have many fond memories of attending TYA shows as a child and now take my own girls to the productions. Using the simplest props, costumes, and classic tales, TYA introduces young audiences (preschool and early elementary) to great children's stories with terrific live action plays reminiscent of Mr. Rogers. The stories are told at a "child's pace," with creative props and gags evoking giggles and cheers from the audience. I love that modern children, who may grow accustomed to Hollywood's special effects, are given the opportunity to appreciate the magic of simple storytelling right before their eyes.

This year's holiday production, 'Twas the Night Before Christmas   showing thru Dec. 28 at Theatre for Young America on the H & R Block City Stage at Union Station. Tickets are $9/ea. Show recommended for preschool and early elementary aged children.

We all know the classic holiday poem by Clement Moore, but this new play puts a twist on the tale bringing the story to life with the adventures of a mouse, who does in fact stir (the cookies he is baking), a little girl, and one of Santa's elves. Little Emily and her mouse friend Amos are disappointed because Santa forgot their house last year. They find themselves on an adventure to the North Pole with an elf on a quest to rescue Christmas and help Santa make his rounds to every boy and girl. Mike Ott plays Amos the Mouse, my girls' favorite character who plays the part with great slapstick comedy and wit. Hailey Jones is his friend Emily, leading the audience in a Christmas rap the entire audience enjoyed. Amy Hurrelbrink plays the Jewish Elf Calliope, and Ben Auxier plays Uncle Brierly and the villain, Sir Guy. And, of course, Santa himself appears!

In true Theatre for Young America style, the props are vibrant, child-like, and imaginative - while very simple a the same time (I LOVE this about TYA!). The story is easy to follow with loads of kid-friendly jokes that had the entire audience laughing. And, at the conclusion of the show, kids are given the chance to ask questions of the cast learning their tricks of the trade.

This holiday season, if you are looking for a memorable and affordable fun outing with your family, treat the kids to 'Twas the Night Before Christmas  showing thru Dec. 28 at Theatre for Young America.