Contributor Review: 'Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day'

Written by: Courtney Fields

Some days are more difficult than others when you have a little one trailing behind you; especially when searching for kid-friendly, interactive weekend activities. Each year, Columbus State University’s Theatre Department is one step ahead in planning such an experience for your children. This weekend, Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day is being performed at the Riverside Theatre Complex beside Woodruff Park.

The hour-long musical, directed by Brenda Ito, is based on the book authored by Judith Viorst. Alexander has gained so much popularity among children since it was published decades ago, that it was adapted into a musical and movie.

If you are unfamiliar with the story, the main character, 11-year-old Alexander, has a day filled with every child’s nightmares: gum stuck in hair, being left out by friends, getting cavities, and not getting dessert at lunchtime! Riddled with disappointment after disappointment at home, in school, at the dentist, and elsewhere, Alexander finally tells his mother how he feels. His mother and father comfort Alexander, and teach him how to dream for a better tomorrow, though bad days might happen - even in Australia!

CSU’s production of Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day quickly transitions between scenes and asks for crowd participations, easily keeping audiences filled with field trip students, parents, and children all entertained. Don’t be surprised when you hear the audience belting out “terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day!” or giving Alexander advice. You might even hear Alexander and friends singing in almost every scene!

The cast hopes their audience takes away a lesson from the musical. Actor Sam Bolar (Nick/Albert) says that he wants everyone to know that “you can have a bad day and go on to have several good days.” Seth Wicker, who plays Alexander, would like for kids to know that “imagination is key...it gets Alexander through the bad day.” The entire cast agrees with Bethany Barnes (Anthony/Becky) in hoping that Alexander shows children that how you treat others can impact their day.

You can see Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day on stage at the Riverside Theater Complex on Friday and Saturday at 10:00 a.m., and Sunday, January 27 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children, and discounts are available for seniors, military, and alumni.