The American Repertory Theater's latest offering, "Wonder," based on R.J. Palacio's beloved 2012 novel and subsequent 2017 film, is making musical waves with its impressive cast and sensitive approach to its source material. The musical boasts a pop-inspired score by the Grammy Award-winning duo A Great Big World, known for hits like "Say Something," and a script penned by Pulitzer Prize finalist Sarah Ruhl. In a statement obtained by The Boston Globe, the ensemble has been called "outstanding," dominated by young actors who bring a tangible energy to their roles.
At the heart of "Wonder" is Auggie Pullman, a character navigating the familiar terrors of middle school, with a specific focus on the additional challenges brought by his facial differences. Although dealing with themes of bullying and acceptance, the American Repertory Theater suggests that the show, recommended for ages nine and up, handles the heavy lifting with a "light touch," allowing the audience to organically connect with the story's inherent empathy and resilience.
Garrett McNally and Max Voehl take turns in bringing Auggie to life, with McNally's "unadorned sincerity" contributing to a portrayal that's immediately endearing, as noted by The Boston Globe. The set design, featuring a pixelated nod to Minecraft and a turntable that circles Auggie's universe, is cited as a deft touch that remains unobtrusive yet evocative. This further illustrates the show's capacity to tackle weighty subject matter without becoming overbearing.
Interestingly, much like its protagonist, the show aims to be understood on a visceral level rather than merely seen, a challenge it rises to with apparent ease. One standout number, "Shoes," sung by Donovan Louis Bazemore, riffs on walking in others' footsteps to explore socio-economic differences among private school students. The musical stretches out to provide character perspectives from Auggie's older sister Via and her friend Miranda, who express complicated feelings of recognition and jealousy, respectively. According to a statement obtained by The Boston Globe, the scene unfolds on a swing set, allowing the emotional swings to come alive with "subtlety and grace."
"Wonder" is set to run at the American Repertory Theater through February 8, offering an approach to musical theater that highlights the significance of acceptance and recognition without the need for excessive exposition. Tickets start at $43 and are available at the American Repertory Theater's website, promising audiences a lyrical journey through a powerful narrative emphasizing the importance of resilience and kindness in today's world.
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