REVIEW: OCTC’s Diary of a Worm, a Spider and a Fly

My children and I had the opportunity to see Oregon Children’s Theatre’s production of Diary of a Worm, a Spider and a Fly on opening weekend. The play, based upon the Diary of a Worm book series by Doreen Cronin and Harry Bliss, opens on the eve of the first day of school. Spider, Worm and Fly are each writing in their diaries about their individual excitement and fears about the new school year. As we move through the acts, each of the main characters expresses what makes them unique and also what makes them feel insecure. Worm is particularly insecure about his lack of wings or legs. As their friendships develop and grow, the audience learns a great deal about the insect and bug world in the most fun and engaging way – songs and raps! By the end of the play, each and every character learns that their differences are exactly what makes them special and important.

The cast, all middle and high school students (other than the teacher), is absolutely fantastic. My children are 7 and 13, and while my 13-year-old was probably a bit old for this production, she still truly enjoyed it. My 7-year-old was a perfect age for this and we saw children as young as 3 engaged and enjoying themselves. OCTC recommends 4+.

Diary of a Worm, a Spider and a Fly runs through June 2nd at Newmark Theatre. As with many of their productions that are aimed at the younger set, there is a fun activity in the lobby that had the little ones running around for a scavenger hunt. The running time is 60 minutes (with no intermission), which really felt perfect. Even the youngest audience members were engaged throughout the performance. Yet another home run for Oregon Children’s Theatre!