Pinocchio: a Folk Musical at Filament Theatre

Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended

"...Adapter/composer Tyler Beattie, director Scott Ferguson, and a musically talented cast lavish sweet-humored charm on Collodi's tale of a puppet (or, more accurately, a piece of pure id) who becomes real by learning the importance of service, study, and work. Before long, the only significant problem is the unwieldy wig Roberto Jonson has to wear as Pinocchio."

Chicago Stage and Screen - Recommended

"...Overall the play was definitely fun. The cast didn't skip a beat, and it was clear by their fluid transitions from piece to piece that they had their parts down. If you have young children and have been looking for something entertaining, which will also give them exposure to a wide range of instruments, you can't do much better than Pinocchio."

Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended

"...Guests of all ages can munch on popcorn and get up close and personal with all the characters, while they’re performing only inches away from them. Tyler Beattie’s musical sparkles with wit and humor, while master director Scott Ferguson gently coaxes warmth and honesty through its many diverse characters and Pinocchio’s marvelous adventures. In the end, this musical is a story with a sound moral. Children will leave the theatre smiling, understanding that learning, working hard and taking care of those who love you will ultimately transform every little puppet into a real person."

Chicago Theater Beat - Recommended

"...This is children’s theater, to be sure, but the sort adults can enjoy as well. Director Scott Ferguson has experience in both kids theater (he created Schoolhouse Rock) and very adult musicals (Bailiwick Chicago’s Aida and Bloody, Bloody Andrew Jackson) and this piece is accessible for children without pandering or dumbing it down for them."