Though the opening scene was enrapturing, I was a little disappointed with the adaptation of the actual staging of the plot. It attempted a frame story with an older Jim Hawkins reflecting through song, but if you are unfamiliar with the story, it was very hard to follow. I will say, I was distracted because my nephews were not engaged past the first few moments. To be fair to CTC, only one of them was within the recommended viewing age.

The only times they were engaged with the staging was during the phenomenal sword fights. They were well choreographed, and the actors were spot on with their wielding of the weapons. The gun shots, obviously, brought about the boys’ attention back due to the loud noise – but the sword fighting had them completely.

They also loved the sea shanty music that was used to show time passing or to show plot points that had been cut to try and make the story more stage friendly.

Two standouts in the cast were the portrayers of Long John Silver by Reed Sigmund and Ben Gunn by Jose Sabillion. Long John Silver captured the two faced pirate well and Ben Gunn was so likeable, it was hard to believe that Scout Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird ever had to state, “He was real nice.”

I applaud Children’s Theater’s intrepidity as they ventured into the tale, and the staging of the opening scene and sword fighting as well as the music, however, if they ever stage this show again, I would recommend that all audience members have read the book and I would also recommend at least ten and up for the audience members rather than eight and up. But have no fear, CTC, we will be back with our crew to set sail on more theatrical adventures.