The Revenge of the Space Pandas
Mid Michigan Family Theatre, Lansing
Feb. 5-14, Fri. and Sat. 7 p.m., Sunday 3 p.m.
$4-$6
freewebs.com/midmichfamilytheatre, (517) 339-2145
The Space Pandas make a landing in Lansing with machine guns in hand. But have no fear, they are confined to the stage of Mid Michigan Family Theatre's production of The Revenge of the Space Pandas.
"It is very zany, tongue-and-cheek comedy as you have pandas walking around with machine guns and intergalactic space travel" says Play and Theatre Director Bill Gordon.
The show features the story of 12-year-old Binky Rudich (Jacob Templin-Fulton) and his two friends Viv (Izzy Taylor and Emma Stevenson), and Bob the sheep (Josh Golden) as they build a two-speed clock in order to overcome the grasp of earthly time. They achieve their goal and are sent on an adventure. Thrown into Crestview, the Fourth World in the Goolagong System, they are first confronted by the Great Space Pandas who guard the mystical land ruled by George Topax (David Brooks).
In their fight to escape this unknown world, Binky, Viv and Bob encounter aliens, giant pandas, and pumpkins falling from the sky. Complimenting the out-of-this-world plot, Gordon has taken on the task of making sure each character fits their role perfectly.
"Most of the time plays like this are done with adults playing the kid roles, but we casted it age-appropriate, therefore it becomes difficult for our lead actors. It is more than just recitation of lines ... it is really going out on a limb to develop the characters into who they are supposed to be," said Gordon.
Gordon says Mamet usually writes for adult audiences, but this unique, one-of-a-kind experience is available for everyone.
"It is available for all audiences, as the younger kids will fall in love with the animals and the adults will enjoy the humor of the writing," says Gordon.
Casting familiar faces and newcomers, Gordon is excited to release such an extravagant comedy to the public. With simple sets and intriguing costumes, it is a story enticing for youngsters, but also enjoyable for those who are looking for a good laugh.
