‘The Incredible Book Eating Boy‘ at South Coast Repertory with the American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter created an amazing experience.
‘The Incredible Book Eating Boy‘ at South Coast Repertory is an absolute delight—a must-see for families, with a perfect mix of humor, heart, and a touch of whimsy that leaves you grinning from ear to ear! This vibrant, energetic, and hilariously fun 50-minute musical, based on Oliver Jeffers’ best-selling book, brings the joy of reading to life in the most captivating way.
Directed by the talented H. Adam Harris, this production of ‘The Incredible Book Eating Boy‘ is a true feast for the senses, filled with clever songs, delightful performances, and a unique story that not only entertains but also gently nudges young minds to appreciate the power of reading. The incredible five-person cast delivers show-stopping performances that make the audience laugh, think, and cheer.
Adam Leiva’s portrayal of Henry is nothing short of magical. His energy and charm carry the entire production, especially during the show’s musical highlight—’Henry on the Menu‘. This catchy, nightmare fueled tune showcases what over indulgence can do to a body. It’s full of whimsy and clever wordplay, bringing both joy and a touch of reflection as Henry’s love for books takes center stage.
Joslynn Cortes as Ms. Penny, Erica Scaeffer as Olivia, Bradley Sharper as Jeff, and Brian Kim McCormick as Henry’s dad each shine with versatility, effortlessly switching between multiple characters. The diverse range of roles they take on adds such a dynamic and entertaining element to the show, highlighting their incredible talent and chemistry.
The musical is perfectly tailored for both kids and adults, with something for everyone. The cute dialogue, playful songs, and heartfelt moments offer lessons on self-acceptance, the value of patience, and, of course, the importance of books… to read, not eat. I can’t recommend it enough! It’s a wonderful experience for kids, and a joy for the adults accompanying them too.
A special mention must be made of the ASL interpreted performance on March 8, where Nicole Pancino’s interpretation was absolutely fantastic, adding another layer of inclusivity to this already wonderful production. A Sensory-Friendly/Relaxed Performance will take place on Saturday, March 15, 2025, 4:30 p.m.
‘The Incredible Book Eating Boy‘ at South Coast Repertory runs from now through March 16, 2025. Tickets can be purchased at scr.org.
Summary
In every way, ‘The Incredible Book Eating Boy‘ is delightful. Whether you’re a child or a child at heart, you’re sure to leave the theatre with a smile on your face and a newfound love for books. Bravo to the entire cast and creative team for making this a show that families will cherish for years to come!
