STAGE REVIEW 'Charlotte's Web' spins charming tale at Salem theater

Outstanding performances were given by the cast.
By GARRY L. CLARK
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
SALEM -- Salem Community Theatre opened its production of the charming children's tale "Charlotte's Web" Friday evening to an appreciative audience of young and old alike.
Based on E.B. White's classic story of a runt pig saved from death by the farmer's daughter and a wise spider who befriends him, the stage version by Joseph Robinette is a rendition that is sweet without being syrupy, filled with gentle humor.
Story
Wilbur, the pig, narrowly escapes a certain fate as the runt of the litter when young Fern Arable begs her father, John, to let her care for him. Later on Wilbur meets Charlotte, a very wise spider who uses her web-making talents to bring fame and notoriety to the innocent young pig in order to save him from becoming someone's dinner.
The barnyard is further populated by Templeton, a somewhat selfish rat who turns out to have a heart of gold -- for a price-- and the other various barnyard beasts, Goose, Gander, Sheep and Lamb.
The story is not, however, without a touch of sadness, for, even though she is able to extend Wilbur's life on the farm, Charlotte is not able to extend her own life cycle, thus making for some very poignant moments.
In the hands of Rick Schehl as director, "Charlotte's Web" has assembled an excellent cast for this endeavor, each one giving a fine performance.
Cast
Giving a star turn as Fern was Sarah Marie Smith, who gave her character a wonderful sweetness as she simply loved Wilbur for what and who he was. Wilbur was played -- at varying stages of growth -- by Dylan White (baby), Drew Bostwick (young) and finally Connor Bezeredi, as the well-fed nearly grown pig who finds friendship among all the barnyard creatures, but especially in Charlotte. All three did an exception job, and of special note was Bezeredi's unique ability to squeal to near perfection.
Anita Dolak and Tommy Reese as the two geese were outstanding, as were Kellie Stewart and Anne Saltsman as the sheep. Tricia Scott also turned in a very good performance as Templeton.
Daniel Haueter and Karen E. Hauck-Losito ably portrayed Fern's parents, with Shane Grim in fine form as Fern's brother, Avery.
The title role was marvelously played by Tina Grim, who made Charlotte's friendship with Wilbur a good example to anyone watching.
Portraying Fern's aunt and uncle, the Zuckermans, were Amanda Stewart and Robert Lee Hillman Jr., who also gave fine performances.
Tying together the storyline with excellent narrations were Randy Barnes and Chelsee Campbell, both of whom have perfect voices for their jobs.
Rounding out the large cast were Barry Hinchliffe, Scott A. Wickersham, Katelyn Kurilla, Cassie Utt, Brook Ackerman, Joshua Doyle, Micah Grim, Cameron Charles Richard Clark, Jordan Grim, Katie Fife and Kristy Hinchliffe.
Also of special note was the superb set design and costuming.
This cast and crew can be very proud of their hard work at bringing this heartwarming tale to life. "Charlotte's Web" is a perfect play for youngsters and the young-at-heart.