A Year with Frog and Toad is a musical based on the beloved Frog and Toad children’s stories by Arnold Lobel. The show was created by Robert and Willie Reale and it debuted on Broadway in 2003. Directed for Cambrian by Mary Davis, the musical follows the charming friendship between two woodland creatures over the course of a year. Structured around the four seasons, the show weaves together various vignettes and songs that highlight their adventures, mishaps, and acts of kindness.
The show emphasizes friendship, acceptance, and the beauty of everyday moments. It’s warm, whimsical, and appropriate for both children and adults.
One of the standout performances in A Year with Frog and Toad comes from Spencer Hari in the role of Snail, a character whose determination and slow pace deliver some of the show’s most charmingly funny moments. Hari fully embraces the physical comedy of the part, using exaggerated movements and facial expressions to elicit genuine laughter. Hari has an incredible singing voice and his comedic timing is impeccable.
Another vocal powerhouse in the cast is Chris Talarico, whose commanding presence and vocal strength leave a lasting impression. His voice is clear, powerful, and emotionally charged. When he belts out those numbers his voice seems to vibrate the whole theatre.
While Don McMahon may not possess the strongest singing voice in the cast, his portrayal of Toad is nothing short of delightful and proves that great acting can shine just as brightly as a strong voice. McMahon brings a deep understanding and affection for the character, capturing Toad’s endearing neuroses, insecurities, and wide-eyed charm with remarkable precision
The set for A Year with Frog and Toad is beautifully painted with rich, whimsical detail. The set captures the cozy charm of the woodland world these characters inhabit. Clever use of props, lighting, and movable set pieces allows for seamless transitions between seasons.
Overall, A Year with Frog and Toad is a joyful, heartwarming production that offers a truly enchanting experience for audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Frog and Toad or discovering them for the first time, this production offers a memorable theatrical experience filled with charm, humour, and heart.
“A Year with Frog and Toad is the kind of show that you just can’t forget about,” said Hari on why people should attend. “All your troubles, all your worries, can come and sort of escape into an enchanted world where all the animals support each other and love each other, but they're also real-life situations that everyone can connect with.”
8/10
