the firebird written and performed by Gill Nathanson and Bill Buffery. Presented by Multi-Story Theatre at the International Children’s Festival of the Arts at the Studio Theatre (235 Queens Quay West). May 27 at 10:30 am, May 28 at 1:15 pm, May 29 at 2:30 pm, May 30 at 12:30 pm. $9, passes $12.50-$15.50. 416-973-4000. Rating: NNNN Rating: NNNN
How can you tell when a kids’ show is succeeding? Easy. No shifting bums, no jostling. Just the silence that comes from a young audience’s rapt attention. That’s pretty much the reaction to The Firebird , Multi-Story Theatre ‘s wholly entertaining adaptation of the Russian fairy tale about a young boy’s quest to capture a magical, thieving bird to save his father’s life.
Using the simplest props and costumes, as well as a guitar and accordion, tireless performers Bill Buffery and Gill Nathanson create an enchanted universe full of talking wolves, lazy siblings and snake-filled lakes.
The two actors take on a variety of roles, and they’re equally adept at athletic feats and good old-fashioned comic shtick.
With impeccable timing and taste, the two even manage to tug at the audience’s heartstrings near the play’s final moments.
Captivating.
