By Mark Ambrogi
One of the main reasons why “A Year with Frog and Toad” has become a staple of Actors Theatre of Indiana productions is it’s not only a crowd favorite but a favorite of ATI co-founder Don Farrell.
“It’s one of my favorite musicals, pretty much of all time,” Farrell said. “It’s special to your heart. It’s written very well. It’s true to the story. It’s a delight. Kids enjoy it. Adults enjoy it.”
Farrell, one of three co-founders of ATI along with Judy Fitzgerald and Cynthia Collins, plays Toad. Fitzgerald will direct and Collins will direct the choreography. The Actors Theatre of Indiana will present “A Year with Frog and Toad” from Dec. 11 to 27 at the Studio Theater in The Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
Farrell said ATI has performed the musical off and on since 2006.
Bradley Reynolds, an Indianapolis native and Speedway High School graduate, plays Frog.
“Bradley is a Broadway producer and he’s coming back and reprising his role,” Farrell said. “He’s very good friend of mine.”
Other returning cast members are Tim Hunt (snail) and Kyra Kenyon (turtle). Shelby Putlak, a new cast member, will play mouse. All three also play other characters.
The late Arnold Lobel wrote the Frog and Toad series. His daughter Adrianne Lobel, a scenic designer helped design the sets for the show when it debuted in Minneapolis in 2002. Adrianne commissioned the musical based on her father’s characters.
Farrell said the show provides good lessons for children without being preachy.
The opening show will be at 7 p.m. on Dec. 11. Performances on Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Ticket prices are $25 for adults and $17.50 for those 18 or younger. For more, visit atistage.org.
