THEATER REVIEW: An elaborate ‘Sleeping Beauty’ in Laguna

The Laguna Playhouse has become transformed into a magical fairyland for the rebirth of one of the classic children’s stories, “The Sleeping Beauty” — by the playhouse’s Youth Theater.

Written originally by the same 17th century French author who created “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Puss in Boots” and “Cinderella” — Charles Perrault — “Sleeping Beauty” was adapted for the stage in the early 20th century by Charlotte B. Chorpenning.

The Laguna youth production, splendidly directed by Kelly Herman, weaves a magical spell over its audience. Fairies abound, most with good intentions, but one — miffed about not being invited to Beauty’s christening — casts a spell of death on the infant, to be carried out on her 16th birthday.

Through the intercession of the other sprites, that spell is modified to be broken in 100 years, but only by a prince’s kiss. Thus, the castle is thrust into a deep sleep — presumably by that same stuff they use in “Brigadoon” — until a century has passed and everyone’s looking remarkably the same.

A bit far-fetched? Certainly, but the tale remains a classic, and the Playhouse has mounted a marvelous presentation — a bit languorous in the early going, yet still attractively appealing. Vikky Hogan is alluring in the title role, a beautiful teenage girl enamored of life and living whose one birthday wish is to be left alone for a while — which, of course, is when the evil fairy does her work. Sean Mabry is quite believable as the staunch young prince who vows to restore her to the living.

The scheming Frytania is particularly malevolent in the person of Pamela Burns, who retains enough humanity to avoid frightening the younger audience members.

Charlie McClung and Claire Day enact Beauty’s royal parents, with Tisha Bellantuoni, Jackson Tupy, Karina Parker and Michael Tingley portraying loyal court members.

Costumer Dwight Richard Odle has outfitted his cast — particularly the fairies — in resplendent garb and Chris Hansen’s opulent scenic design provides an ideal backdrop. Donna Ruzika’s lighting and — in particular — David Edwards’ sound effects further embellish the production. A special delight are the original music and vocals by Diane King Vann.

“The Sleeping Beauty” especially will charm younger members of the Laguna audience, who quite probably are unfamiliar with the story. For older patrons, it’s a return to a long-forgotten magical era.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: “The Sleeping Beauty”

WHERE: Laguna Playhouse Youth Theater, 606 Laguna Canyon Road

WHEN: Closing performances tonight at 7:30, Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m., Sunday at 1 and 5 p.m.

COST: $16 - $20

CALL: (949) 497-2787

TOM TITUS reviews local theater for the Coastline Pilot.