Three Little Birds
My thoughts on Three Little Birds or…once on their island.
The vibrant colors of Jamaica surround you in this charming musical folk tale and coming of age story with music and lyrics by Bob Marley. Three Little Birds, written by Cedella Marley and adapted for the stage by Michael J. Bobbitt, weaves its fun and magical story before a vivid mural of a Jamaican landscape designed by Gabrielle Malbrough. The colors continue on to Malbrough’s set pieces and Hope Cox’s terrific, especially for the birds, costumes. The lighting from Jonah Gutierrez and projections from Holli Price add much to the tropical vibe and Ryan Simon’s sound design keeps those familiar Bob Marley tunes as clear and sweet as an ocean breeze.
Director Charles Jackson Jr. directs with an eye toward entertaining the youngsters and there is nary a slow moment in the show. Choreographer Kiandra Brooks’ spirited dances evoke the tropics and Vocal Coach Pamela Dawson has the cast in top vocal form singing Marley’s well-known songs like “One Love” and “So Much Trouble in the World.” And everyone has authentic sounding Jamaican accents.
The versatile and skilled Evan Christopher Arnold stars as Ziggy. It’s a convincing and winning portrayal as the six foot plus, athletically built Arnold becomes a nerdy, tv and weather obsessed, eleven year old and his smooth, soft vocals are enchanting.
Autumn Robinson is another charmer as Nansi, a young woman who has designs on the oblivious Ziggy. Robinson is excellent at capturing the spirit and demeanor of an adolescent girl and I was reminded of all those giggly, chatty sixth graders from my teaching days.
The luminous Shaundra Norwood Gabriel is Ziggy’s mother Cedella. Cedella urges Ziggy to break away from the tv and enjoy life. Gabriel is a true songbird and her wonderful; vocals and engaging presence make Cedella an appealing character.
There are birds on the island who advise and attempt to motivate young Ziggy. They are led by Doctor Bird played by LaMar Staton. Staton is an actor impossible to ignore on stage. There is something about his manner and movements that captivates, and he is in his element cawing, dancing, singing, strutting, and giving off lots of avian attitude.
Doctor Bird is assisted by Tacoomah played with fine feathered flair by Savannah F and Nissi Chepkirui Sigei, a talented ensemble member.
Every story needs its villain and AJ Bowman Shelton is a menacing and scary one as the supernatural Duppy who is after Ziggy’s locks to increase her strength. Adorned with a costume covered with the locks of her victims, the Duppy has quite an unnerving look. Shelton takes the part and runs with it, making the Duppy an original otherworldly character.all her own.
Three Little Birds is delightful entertainment that is kid friendly at just over an hour without an intermission. Young people will be enthralled and identify with Ziggy as he learns to face his fears. Go for the color, the songs, and the very talented cast. There’s even a very entertaining Jamaican history lesson here. You’ll be very glad you were once on this island.
