‘Finian’s Rainbow’ brings enchantment to Caryl Crane Youth Theatre stage

Caryl Crane Youth Theatre at BGSU Firelands presents one of Broadway’s classic and most original musicals, “Finian’s Rainbow,” Jan. 31 through Feb. 3. Its song, dance and the luck of the Irish will provide hope for a better world. The award-winning production is sponsored by Bignoli Enterprises of Norwalk, Ohio, and features 30 students from 11 area schools.

With a sparkling score of beloved standards and a whimsical story that dances between romance, satire and fairy tale, “Finian's Rainbow” is a musical theater treasure. Set in the mythical southern state of Missitucky, “Finian's Rainbow” pits a charming Irish dreamer and his headstrong daughter against the host of complications that await them in their newly adopted land, giving birth to some of the most witty, charming and heartfelt songs ever written for the stage. The musical's score boasts such classic songs as "Old Devil Moon," "When I'm Not Near the Girl I Love," "Look to the Rainbow," "If This Isn't Love” and "How Are Things in Glocca Morra?”

Written by Burton Lane, Fred Saidy and E.Y. Harburg, this musical comedy satire, which makes you wonder what happens “When the Idle Poor Become the Idle Rich,” is as timely now as when it was written in 1947.

“Finian’s Rainbow” is also the 2019 Caryl Crane Youth Theatre Competition Team production. Having won the Outstanding Production title at last year’s Junior Theatre Festival in Atlanta with “The Lion King,” CCYT took “Finian’s Rainbow” back last weekend to defend its title and was awarded Best in Music for its performance. In addition, five CCYT students were recognized for outstanding performances in acting and dance.

Now, area audiences can experience the enchantment of “Finian’s Rainbow” at Caryl Crane Youth Theatre in the McBride Auditorium on the BGSU Firelands campus. Tickets are $6 to $12 and are available by calling 419-626-1950 or ordering online at www.sanduskystate.com. The performance is appropriate for all ages.