Review: OCT’s "Judy Moody & Stink: The Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Treasure Hunt"

X marks the spot at the Newmark Theater in Portland where Judy Moody and her brother Stink solve pirate clues that lead to treasure. Oregon Children’s Theatre’s production of Judy Moody & Stink: The Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Treasure Hunt was based on the Judy Moody books written by Megan McDonald and illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds.

All of the performers were convincing and professional, and the young actors demonstrated a quality of ease on stage, which belied their age. The stage sets were simple, but colorful — and cleverly creative.  

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Judy Moody was true to the Moody part of her character’s name. Her sass and spunk may cause some grandmothers to squirm as that sass was once known as bratty behavior. But grandmothers could relax as Judy redeems herself as she realizes she must cooperate with her brother to solve the clues and then (spoiler alert) when she decides to share the treasure with two of her competitors.  

Stink, not true to his character name, is delightful with his enthusiasm, brief bursts of song, and his survival backpack. (Take note Oregonians, this child is prepared.) Of course the backpack and Stink come to the rescue several times to solve clues. My granddaughter said he was her favorite character, “He was kind of funny cause they were supposed to be looking for treasure, but he was sitting down and looking in his backpack for goldfish crackers!”

With pirates as part of the scene there is always the potential for some scaryparts. My granddaughter (age 5) jumped during the thunder and lightening storm, but quickly forgot about it. She was concerned by one of the daydream scenes involving a huge parrot near the end of the play, but not enough to actually be scared.

The rebellious and moody Judy triumphed in the end making this a fun 1-hour adventure where cooperation and determination are rewarded.

After the show, line up to meet and take pictures with the cast.

Judy Moody runs through November 19.
Saturdays at 2:00pm and 5:00pm
Sundays at 11:00am and 2:00pm
[No 11:00am show on 11/5, 11/12, and 11/19]

Location
Newmark Theatre, 1111 SW Broadway, Portland

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Age Recommendation
4 and up

Run time
60 minutes with no intermission

Ticket Prices
$14-$32

Betsy Parker
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