Review: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow

Posted by Curtain Up! on Oct 21, 2025

Miners Alley Performing Arts Center in Golden, CO, brings a spirited twist to a classic tale with The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, adapted and directed by longtime local favorite Rory Pierce. This family-friendly adaptation invites young audiences into the mysterious world of Ichabod Crane, where pumpkins fly, shadows dance, and storytelling reigns supreme. With playful staging and a cast tuned to the rhythms of laughter and suspense, Pierce’s version balances spooky fun with theatrical magic—perfect for introducing children to the joys of live performance.

The exceptional cast of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow brings this playful adaptation to life with charm and energy. James Giordano (filling in for Damon Guerrasio) brings delightful eccentricity and charm to Ichabod Crane, anchoring the production with playful precision, while Tim Fishbaugh doubles delightfully as both Diedrich Knickerbocker and Baltus Van Tassel. Annie Dwyer lends comedic flair to Dame Knickerbocker and Dame Van Tassel, and Meredith Young shines as the spirited Katrina Van Tassel. John Hauser gives Brom Bones a bold, mischievous edge, and Erik Thurston keeps the younger audience giggling as the lively duo of Dan and Daniel. Together, this ensemble delivers a performance full of warmth, whimsy, and theatrical fun.

Rory Pierce’s direction infuses The Legend of Sleepy Hollow with playful energy and a clear understanding of what captivates young audiences. His staging balances spooky suspense with lighthearted humor, keeping the pace brisk and the tone inviting. Children in the audience are not just spectators, they’re welcomed into the story as active participants, joining the cast on stage in moments that spark imagination and delight. Pierce crafts an experience that’s both theatrical and interactive, making the magic of live performance feel personal and unforgettable.

It’s never too early to introduce children to the magic of live theatre—and at Miners Alley Performing Arts Center, that’s not just a belief, it’s a mission. Their commitment to engaging young audiences shines through productions like The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, where storytelling becomes a shared experience and kids are invited to step into the action. By fostering imagination, empathy, and a sense of community, Miners Alley helps plant the seeds of lifelong appreciation for the arts—one giggle, gasp, and stage entrance at a time.

Costume design by Crystal McKenzie is exceptionally suited to the period, enhancing character and atmosphere with thoughtful detail. Playing on the set for Diva Royal, the adult farce currently on stage at Miners Alley, Jonathan Scott-McKean’s scenic design and projections, including the multicolored flooring, provide a flexible and evocative environment that easily supports the storytelling. Xander Claypool’s lighting design adds texture and mood, guiding the audience’s attention and sparking imagination throughout the performance. Together, these elements create a visually engaging world that deepens the impact of the production.

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow at Miners Alley Performing Arts Center is a delightful introduction to live theatre for young audiences—full of laughter, suspense, and interactive magic. With Rory Pierce’s inviting adaptation and direction, a spirited cast, and imaginative design, the production offers families a chance to experience engaging and enriching storytelling. Playing through November 8, it’s a seasonal treat that proves the stage is where wonder begins.

For information and tickets: https://minersalley.com/shows/the-legend-of-sleepy-hollow-2025/

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