Review of “Cate and the Garden Bandits: The Musical” (Script) by Zachary Simpson, Based on Original Story by Betsy Coffeen

Score: 91+/100 (9.1+ out of 10)

Cate and the Garden Bandits: The Musical, written by Zachary Simpson and based on Betsy Coffeen's OCA award-winning children's book, is a vibrant, fun, and engaging theatrical adaptation aimed at young audiences.

The central theme revolves around collaboration. Cate, a butterfly, and her insect friends work together to sustain the magical garden, while later including the bees in their ecosystem to show the power of unity. Conflict arises when the bees' actions being misunderstood as theft (by “bandits”). This theme highlights the importance of communication and mutual understanding in resolving conflicts.

The narrative educates children about the symbiotic relationships in nature and the importance of every creature in maintaining an ecosystem, even ones that bite, sting, or seem unpleasant. That really spoke to us spider/centipede/wasp/worm-hating people. 

Cate embodies courage and takes a leadership role in solving the garden's problems, encouraging young audiences to take initiative and face challenges.

She's accompanied by her bug friends including Pete (the potato bug), Davey (the dung beetle), and Walter (the earthworm). These characters add depth and humor to the story, showcasing different facets of teamwork and the interconnectedness of living things in a shared environment. They also bring comic relief, particularly through their initial fears and quirky personalities, but they demonstrate courage and loyalty by supporting Cate in her mission.

Something that needs to be noted (and admired) is that the cast of this musical is relatively small and the lines are relatively simple and easy to remember. That's great! It's especially good for actors in the target age group (elementary school) who could find more characters and more complicated lines hard to remember and follow.

We later get introduced to new characters like the bees (like Buzz & Bob) and their queen, Qira, who seems to have a bigger role in this script than in the book itself. This gives young people more roles to play without being overwhelming. And, thankfully, for the less cooperative, less inclined, or more shy kids in the classroom who need to be included, there's still a “Townspeople” umbrella role.

Going along with that, it's also quite short. Yes, there are three acts, but the three acts are quite brief. The story really flies with the zip and zest of a dragonfly, and we wonder if this musical would even reach 30-45 minutes. It's really digestible and manageable for young people.

And let's not forget, this isn't just a play, it's a musical!

Songs like "The Magical Garden" serve as a vibrant and cheerful introduction, setting the tone for the whimsical world while introducing the main characters and their harmonious community. This number cleverly uses repetition and engaging lyrics, making it easy for young audiences to remember and sing along.

Let's take a look at some of the lines in this musical:

"The sun is up, the sky is blue. Do, do, do. I wake up with my friends too."
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These opening lines are simple, cheerful, and highly singable. They set a welcoming tone for the magical world and establish a sense of community right from the start. The repetition of “do, do, do” creates a playful rhythm that makes the song stick in the audience's memory.

"Who Are These Bugs?" is another standout, blending mystery with humor. It captures Cate’s curiosity and determination while exposing the bumbling antics of Buzz and Bob. The playful melodies underscore the comedic tension and add a sense of adventure.

"Who are these Bugs? Stealing from us. I don't know what to think of this."

This introspective line captures Cate's mix of confusion and resolve. The rhyme and rhythm give it a lighthearted touch while advancing the plot.

"Petals are gone, this is all wrong. I must be strong to fix it."

This line builds Cate's character, showing her determination. The straightforward phrasing ensures the audience, especially children, can follow her thoughts and feelings. In a sense, it serves as both exposition (for what's happening and what Cate wants to do) as well as character development (showing how Cate is assertive and a doer).

The reprises, such as the "Magical Garden Reprise" are skillfully woven into the narrative, creating continuity and emphasizing critical moments. These reprises act as thematic anchors, reminding the audience of the garden's values of teamwork, friendship, and problem-solving, while musically linking key scenes together.

Repeating the melody from the opening number during pivotal moments ties the story together and reinforces its themes. For example, when Cate resolves to investigate the missing petals, the reprise underscores her dedication to protecting the garden.

In "We are The Magical Garden" lines like, "We are all, we are all, we are all The Magical Garden," drive home the unifying message of the story. The simple yet impactful repetition makes it an emotional closing number, leaving the audience with a sense of shared purpose and joy.

Cate and the Garden Bandits: The Musical is a charming, educational, and entertaining production suitable for families and schools. Its messages of teamwork, environmental stewardship, and the resolution of misunderstandings are timeless and impactful.

Check it out here!