Kids go to the Theater

Saturday, November 26: It’s the day after Black Friday, so even though it’s raining, let’s call this Sunny Saturday. I’m at First Stage Children’s Theater, crammed into the lobby of the Todd Wehr Theater with grandparents, parents, and assorted kids of all ages who’ve come to see Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells.

It’s suggested that those under age three are better left at home, but face it, this is for kids, and who cares if a kid in Pull-Ups slurps a sippy while screaming and smiling? Hey, adults wearing Packer gear slurp bottled water in the box seats at the MSO. Deal with it.

The lobby is packed, but despite the free cookies for those who come costumed as superstars, I find among the hundreds but two who actually dare to be different.

Theater goers Derek and Sean (Batman and the Green Lantern).

Niall ponders the meaning of theater at First Stage.

Derek, age nine (and ½), and his brother Sean, 5, shine as Batman and the Green Lantern. Derek shows off a few karate moves by whirling, spinning and leaping, though he claims to never have actually “acted.” His dad says his #1 son has been in several karate exhibitions.

A little chap wearing a “Niall” name tag sits alone on a bench, intent on his Nintendo Game Boy.

Two ladies from Burlington make their first trip to First Stage

Sisters Kennedy, 6, and Savannah Georgia Jean, age 8, like the Junie B. story, because “Junie B. says what’s on her mind.”

“I used to be an angel, when I was around six or seven, and in a play at St. John Vianney in Brookfield,” chirps Savannah. Both girls are involved in tap, jazz and ballet lessons.

Junie B. romps through December 24.