Teatro Zinzanni is a staple of the Seattle nightlife scene and has been for … about 20 years I think. Initially set up in an empty lot with a tent for a limited run the company now features a permanent building, summer camps for kids and shows that feature a variety of different feats.
Their latest show I was invited to attend is Rock This Way, the “rock and roll circus” that runs on the weekends, kicking off at 11 in the morning (doors at 10) and lasts about an hour. Geared towards kids, there is enough on offer that parents will certainly enjoy taking the youngsters to the show. There is a live band performing such classics as “I Love Rock n Roll”, “Dream On”, “We Are The Champions” and “Start Me Up” but that’s not the full extent of it.
Photo by Mike Hipple courtesy of Teatro ZinZanni
There are two parts to “rock and roll circus” and while the rock and roll part is pretty evident, it is that circus part which will truly captivate audiences. Over the course of the hour there are some aerial acrobatics, but that’s not all of it. We have one young performer getting a showcase at one point in the show for instance.
Photo by Mike Hipple couretesy of Teatro ZinZanni
One of the things I never thought I would see, never thought of combining, and certainly would not expect it to work, is a tap dance to Blondie’s “Rapture” – but I thought it was fantastic. Then there are other types of performers as well, with everybody getting a moment in the spotlight.
Photo by Mike Hipple courtesy of Teatro ZinZanni
The house band does a good job, the performers are all great, and the hour goes by quickly. Rock This Way was an enjoyable time out of the house. There is a “kiddie mosh pit” which is just an area in front of the stage for the younger set (pre-schoolers) to dance. There are plenty of chairs around the stage for parents and older kids – and even the booths are available, though you might not get as immersed in the show.
If you recognize the name Keith Lowe on bass that’s because I have mentioned him before.
I attended the show with Xavier and Ciárán, ages 5 and 8, respectively. Did they enjoy it? Well, Ciárán was being obstinate and didn’t want to go for some reason. As we left he said, “That was neat,” without being asked. This is actually high praise from him. Xavier also enjoyed the show right from the onset. He was enthralled especially with the acrobats.
Rock This Way runs through May 22.