The Dinosaur Musical at HMS Theater Company

Theater: Haverford Middle School
Show: The Dinosaur Musical
Opens: December 7, 2007
Seen: November 26, 2007
Reviewer: Gary Labowitz
Submitted: November 30, 2007

The Dinosaur Musical will be at Haverford Middle School, 1701 Darby Road, December 7 and 8 at 7:00PM.

Wouldn’t it be wonderful to say, “I saw Streisand before she got to Broadway?” Wow! Well, the only way that could happen is if you gave the kid a chance and went to see her before she was a star. High school and college productions give you that chance with other kids. But what about Middle School? Yes, I am suggesting you go to a Haverford Middle School production of a little known property called “The Dinosaur Musical.” Even if your kid isn’t in it!

This is bare-bones theater. No elaborate sets. No spectacular lighting. Just young talent, learning the trade, being entertaining, fun, and touching. The plot is inane and predictable. (It already sounds like most of what’s on TV!) Two groups of dinosaurs are battling for supremacy. We are all pulling for the “nice” dinosaurs, who are understanding and kind and want to make a better inclusive world, rather than the dino-eat-dino “bad” dinosaurs.

The show (new to me) is by Willie and Robert Reale and has some peppy, catchy tunes in it. There is a large chorus fronted by some lead players who, if you are not careful, will steal your heart as they show the way to happiness through diversity. Besides, where else will you find an energetic chorus of cockroaches?

Keep your eye on Alan Newnham, Robbie Cromie, and Sara Nealley so you can say, “I saw him/her before …..” Let’s hope they all continue to test themselves in theater at the next levels.

Holding this massive effort together is Mr. Michael Braverman, and a braver man you won’t find. (Sorry, some things are too good to resist.) He, and his co-director, Michael Armine, are the kind of teachers we want in our schools.

This is an ambitious undertaking for all involved. Give it your support, have fun, and enjoy something new for a change. You may never look at a plate of spaghetti the same way again.

Special Note from Charlie Seymour Jr, Founder of StageMagazineOnline.com:

OK… usually we don't review middle school productions. But Michael Braverman, a Member of our site, is doing extraordinary work with young people. He asked for our help to get some people to advise his students at a dress rehearsal - we did. And having known Michael's work for a few years (I photographed his productions a couple of times), I know first-hand the value he provides each student who gets involved.

If YOU have special groups that you want me to know about, email me at Charlie@StageMagazineOnline.com and tell me about them. We encourage good theater at any level, and are glad we can support any group promoting theater and the actors and crews working in it.

Charlie