China A. Brickey, Keegan Robinson, Antonisia (Nisi) Collins, Cortlan Gosa, Janely Rodriguez, and John Jamison II Photo by Glenn Stubbe Photography

Milo, played in a star-making turn by Toussaint Francois Battiste, has all the energy and exuberance of any other 12-year-old boy, with an assured, natural way of sharing with the audience beyond his years. Battiste is more than ably supported by Antonisia Collins playing Milo's sister Adrienne and four multi-talented ensemble members who all have moments to shine. China A. Brickey is a warm, anchoring presence as Milo's mother and an intensely committed bird puppeteer during the country number, "How I Lost My Bird." John Jamison II is hilarious as Jim, the cowboy Milo imagines losing his bird. Keegan Robinson joyously leads the silliness in another comedic number, "This Boy's a King," and Janely Rodriguez showcases her breakdancing moves in the hip-hop number, "My Expression."

The scenic design by Sydney Lynne fluidly transitions from real settings like Milo's bedroom, the subway car, and train station, to the places in Milo's imagination, such as when a giant staircase is wheeled in for the king. Director Burke keeps the small ensemble weaving in and around set pieces and on and off the train car to effectively convey the hustle and bustle of a New York City train station. The bright and bold colors of Annie Cody's costume design pop dramatically, especially in Milo's imagination, yet feel completely contemporary on the subway car. Lighting design by Wu Chen Khoo is authentic yet playful, particularly in an early moment when Milo addresses several audience members and literally puts them on the spot.

The source material for this new musical is the children's book "Milo Imagines the World" by Matt de la Pena and Christian Robinson, and this adaptation wisely condenses and expands Milo's imaginings while deepening Milo's ties and frustrations with his sister through the song, "Anything's Better Than This." Overall, the themes of the book hit deeper and feel more resonant through musical adaptation. In a reprise of the beautiful ballad, "Reflection," the genre of music theatre gives Milo the opportunity to sing directly to the audience, "Was there more you didn't see?"

Children's Theatre Company recommends this production for ages 7 and up. At a length of just over an hour, it may run a little long for some of the youngest audience members. The songs are plentiful, ranging in styles from funk to rock, pop, and the aforementioned hip-hop and country with lots of high-energy, attention-grabbing dance moves. My 5-year-old boy companion became a little antsy during a ballad late in the production, but was transfixed in the poignant final scenes.

Milo Imagines the World runs through March 9, 2025, at Children's Theatre Company, 2400 Third Avenue South, Minneapolis MN. For tickets and information, please call 612-874-0400 or visit childrenstheatre.org.