Oregon Children’s Theatre’s adaptation of the best selling Steven Pastis book, “Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made” premiered Saturday. If your child hasn’t given you a primer on Total Failure Inc., know that the start-up detective agency at the center of the tale is headed by one red-scarved Timmy Failure, age 8, and his Polar Bear, Failure.
The characters are both simple and iconic: think Charlie Brown for the new generation. Kids will identify with the anti-hero, Timmy, and his delusions of grandeur, but the deliciously annoying Molly is the real scene stealer. There’s plenty of slapstick silliness and some sneakier puns that older kids might just catch.
Timmy Failure gives a great opportunity to discuss the “fourth-wall” and surrealism. You could take it there for older kids, or you can just enjoy the wild romp. Keep your eyes peeled for a rather psychedelic “intermission”.
Recommended for kids aged 8 and up.
Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made is at the Winningstad Theatre, 1111 S.W. Broadway
Shows are at 2 and 5pm on Saturdays and 2pm on Sundays through March 22
$18 to $28 for adults, $15 to $24 for children