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Regional Reviews: Phoenix Junie B.'s Essential Survival Guide to School Also see Gil's reviews of Let the Good Times Roll: A New Orleans Gumbo and Tootsie
Adapted from Barbara Park's beloved children's book series, Marcy Heisler's book for the show cleverly captures Junie B.'s hilarious voice, weaving her offbeat observations about school into a story that is funny and relatable for both children and adults. The score, with music by Zina Goldrich and lyrics by Heisler, is playful and energetic, filled with catchy songs that highlight Junie B.'s wild imagination while celebrating the humor and joy of daily school life. Together, the book and score create a joyful theatrical experience that stays true to the spirit of Park's original books. The plot is fairly simple: Junie B. Jones thinks she has the answers to everything, so she decides to write a book for students to teach them how to survive at school. The only problem? She doesn't really have any survival tips and when her classmates start to offer their own suggestions, Junie B. gets offended since the book was her idea. Her outbursts and confrontations get her into constant trouble at school. At the heart of the production is the delightful performance of Kaylah Magee, who has the perfect mix of sass, vulnerability and imagination for Junie B, whose honest, unfiltered thoughts and actions often lead to both trouble and laughter. Magee creates a character that is both hilariously over the top and deeply relatable. Her comic timing is sharp, and she fully embraces Junie B.'s wild, rambunctious energy. Surrounding Magee is an ensemble of talented young actors who shine in their own moments, several of whom play multiple roles, from quirky classmates to exasperated teachers. Hanna-Catherine Smith is great as May, Junie B.'s rule-following classmate who often clashes with her, and Colton Wilcher is Sheldon, the quirky student whose nervous energy and dramatic reactions get big laughs. Mahagani Carter and Santiago Lacey get a few moments to shine as the fashion-loving Lucille and the kindhearted Herb, respectively. Makena Meyer and Morgan James are very good as Junie B.'s compassionate and patient mother and father, with James also portraying Junie B.'s firm but helpful teacher, Mr. Scary, who helps his students learn academics as well as life lessons. Aidan Vidaurri, Drake de Gennaro-White, Brianna Toohey, Arabella Blanco, Abbigail Davis, and Kenzie Speirs round out the cast, delivering spirited vocals and dance moves. Mia Johnson's direction derives clear and distinct portrayals from the cast and her staging keeps things constantly moving at a fast pace while not shortchanging the meaningful moments in the show. The music direction by Ian Elder delivers bright vocals from the entire cast. Dori Brown's colorful set design is filled with playful school-themed details, perfectly complementing the whimsical tone of the musical, with the clever use of projections to depict the pages in the book that Junie B. is writing as well as the many letters home she receives for her inappropriate behavior at school. The costumes by Gina Love are bright and fun, giving each character their own unique look that enhances their personality; her costumes that depict various school supplies are fantastic. VYT's production of Junie B.'s Essential Survival Guide to School is delightful and charming. The enthusiasm and talent of its young cast bring to life a story that celebrates the hilarity and heart of childhood and teaches the value of compromise and understanding. You'll most likely leave smiling and be reminded of the joys and challenges of growing up. Junie B.'s Essential Survival Guide to School runs through August 31, 2025, at Valley Youth Theatre, 525 North First Street, Phoenix AZ. For ticket and information, please visit www.vyt.com or call 602-253-8188. Director: Mia Johnson Cast: |
