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Theater Review: “Mole Rat” fun musical at Northampton Community College

What happens to a burrow of naked mole rats when one of them suddenly decides to wear clothes?

The answer is a fun, thoughtful and energy-filled musical, “Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience,” through July 25, Bill Mutimer Summer Theatre Series, Northampton Community College.

The June 28 performance was seen for this review.

The show is based on the book by Mo Willems, who wrote the script and lyrics. Music is by Deborah Wicks LaPuma.

The set depicts a colorful burrow with steps and slides. (At least one audience member had to be dissuaded from playing on the set before the show.) Curtains at the back of the set seem to lead to hidden parts of the burrow.

There are carpet squares on the floor in front of the stage if youngsters want a closer look at the performance.

The actors in the production bring the characters to life. The characters are well-acted and very animated. The show has seven actors.

The cast includes Aiden Weller (Wilbur J. Mole Rat), Jayden McFaddin (Grande Mole Rat), Adrian Colon-Burgos (Venti Mole Rat), Devvani Choudhury (Tall Mole Rat), Jordan Joseph Stark (Naked Mole Rat), Maria Shrorunke (Weather Mole Rat, Secret Service Mole Rat) and Azelia Dos Santos (Buck Naked, Grand-Mah Mole Rat).

Music is used throughout the show for emphasis and enjoyment. The song “What if” is central to the story.

Clair M. Freeman is the director. Jenna Williamson is choreographer.

Sensory-friendly performances are offered Saturday mornings. The house lights are subued and stay on. A basket of sensory toys is offered at the entrance to the theater, along with coloring pages. There are photos of the cast for audience members to choose their favorite mole rat.

“Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience,” 10 a.m. June 25, 26, 28, July 2, 3, 5, 9, 10, 12, 16, 17, 23, 24, 26; 1 p.m. June 27, July 11,18, 25; 11 a.m. July 4, Bill Mutimer Summer Theatre Series, Northampton Community College, 3835 Green Pond Road, Bethlehem Township. 484-484-3412, https://www.ncctix.org/

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO BY AMICO STUDIOSAiden Weller (Wilbur J. Mole Rat), center, and cast, “Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience,” Bill Mutimer Summer Theatre Series, Northampton Community College.