By David Vitrano

L’Observateur

RESERVE – Although many children today are fully entrenched in the world of technology — and usually know more about the gadgets than their parents — St. John Theatre’s latest production, “Toy Camp,” shows why traditional toys such as dolls and teddy bears will never lose their appeal.

In the play, toys take on a life of their own as they try to learn how to be good playthings and graduate from toy camp. The alternative for them is to be sent to the ominous-sounding toy dump. Throughout the course of the hour-long production, the characters learn how to fulfill their different roles while staying true to themselves. The play is filled with catchy songs that are new to most but at the same time will have audience members singing along by song’s end.

Director Mike Brooks said he chose the production because he wanted to do something for the kids that went beyond the usual suspects of holiday-themed productions.

“And it has a message,” he noted.

Regulars to the theater will see a handful of familiar faces, but about half of the actors are new to the stage. In fact, the youngest of the thespians are just 11 years old. While that fact might be intimidating to many directors, it hasn’t posed a problem for Brooks.

“I like to see the actors come alive,” he said, adding, “I think for the most part the kids have done that.”

Children will love the colorful costumes and catchy tunes, and the short running time ensures the

little won’t get too fidgety. Adults, however, may find themselves having just as much fun as the production offers a chance to escape to a simpler time. Plus, the moral backbone to the production is applicable for all ages.

The public has just one chance to catch this unique production. Saturday, Dec. 5, at 7 p.m. is the only time “Toy Camp” will be put on for the general public. Two Friday matinees are for area students only. On Saturday, Santa will be visiting the lobby of St. John Theatre to listen to all the toy-related dreams inspired by the show.

Tickets for “Toy Camp” are just $5 for everybody, so parents can spend some quality time with the whole family without breaking the bank.