Review: ‘The Pout-Pout Fish’ Leaves Audiences Smiling

October 17, 2019

As a mom of two, I’ve seen my fair share of grumpy faces and endless grimaces. So, I was intrigued to find out the story behind TheaterWorksUSA’s latest stage production, “The Pout-Pout Fish.”

I knew it would center around an ocean pout, which is a real marine creature typically found in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of New England and eastern Canada. But, what I didn’t know was how much my kids and I would enjoy this impeccable blend of puppetry, music and awesome storytelling. Well, ok, maybe that’s not exactly true – my expectations are always high when it comes to shows at The New Victory Theater. They consistently deliver top-notch performances and this was no exception.

Photo credit: Jeremy Daniel

Based on the best-selling children’s book series by Deborah Diesen, “The Pout-Pout Fish” takes audiences on an underwater ride of self-discovery and exploration. The protagonist is a big, blue fish who wears a perpetual pout and sees his world through a dark, pessimistic lens. Despite his ocean friends’ unceasing pleas for him to get out and enjoy life and experience new things, he resists. That is until one fateful encounter with a magnificent pearl that inadvertently gives him a positive glimpse into who he truly is.

Unfortunately, he loses the precious gemstone, which sends him on a quest to reclaim this ocean-shattering revelation. Along his journey, he’s faced with challenges and meets new friends that show him that life isn’t so bad after all.

If your children are fans of the book, they’re going to really enjoy this stage adaptation. It’s chock full of awe-inspiring puppetry and catchy songs that will have you humming them long after you leave the theater. Ideal for children ages 4-7, the show will keep them engaged and entertained throughout.