We sent our Mom/Daughter duo out on a mission to review Ashes, Ashes at the Austin Scottish Rite Theater. Did they like it? Would they recommend to their friends. Find out below in this Special Mission Theatre Mama post.
The Kid Review
When you come into Scottish Rite Theater it is very nice and comfy. It makes me feel at home. There is carpet for little ones. It is 140 years old.
Ashes Ashes is a steampunk kids play. It has impressive staging with lots of grey rags, broken columns and a steampunk factory (by a local Iron Workers Union).
It is about a girl that lives in a factory town. The factory produces this light but in the process makes so much ash that you cannot see the real sun. The play is about the girl’s attempts to remember.
I think the play is very good!! Only see it if you are okay with some sad parts. I would not take anyone under 8 because it involves scary and sad parts.
The Mom Review
Ashes Ashes is not a “fun” play, but is a perfect play for that hard to entertain tween to early teen demographic. The story is dark and dystopian and would resonate with kids who are passionate about climate change. I’m the only one who admitted it, but I think we both cried. My daughter and I both loved the staging of the play — the scenery and costumes were simple but a lot of fun. I urge you to watch for the clever reference to the “Cups” song as the factory workers work the assembly line.
From a purely logistical point of view, I love Scottish Rite Kids Theater. It’s convenient to get to (just south of UT), has free parking, plenty of seating and the play ran without an intermission and was well timed for my daughter’s attention span.
What: Ashes, Ashes
When: 11 a.m. Saturdays through May 23; 2 p.m. Sundays through May 17.
Location: Scottish Rite Theater, 207 W. 18th St.
Cost: $12 adults, $8 children 12 and younger.
Website: scottishritetheater.org.
