Adventure Theatre’s ‘Beatrice Likes the Dark’ charms with warmth and wonder
Adventure Theatre’s production of Dani Stoller’s adaptation follows Beatrice and her sister Roo as they learn to appreciate their differences and find beauty in darkness. The cast, including Irene Hamilton and Cheslea Majors, is joined by narrating pets Buttons and Raven, with Patrick Flynn directing. Lynn Joslin’s glowing lighting and Kenny Neal’s sound design, plus more than 50 props, create a mystical environment for young audiences and their families.
Adventure Theatre MTC in Glen Echo, Maryland, presents Dani Stoller’s adaptation of April Genevieve Tucholke’s book through November 1, 2026. Patrick Flynn directs Irene Hamilton, Cheslea Majors, Jordan Brown, Hannah Taylor, Tobi Baisburd, and Jordan Essex. The pets Buttons and Raven narrate as sisters Beatrice and Roo learn from their differences.
Lynn Joslin’s luminous lighting, Kenny Neal’s sound design, Hailey LaRoe’s projections, and Andrea “Dre” Moore’s 50-plus props build a magical setting. The 45-minute show has no intermission and is suggested for children five and older. Tickets are $27, with discounts or options for groups, school trips, and parties.
This family-friendly production may give young viewers a gentle entry point for talking about fear, sibling differences, and finding beauty in darkness. Parents and caregivers could use its story and visuals as a shared conversation starter. Its short length, age guidance, and local venue may also help sustain community interest in children’s theater around the Washington area.