'Children's Scientology Pageant' strikes right tone

While the life history and philosophical musings of science fiction writer turned Church of Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard may not seem like appropriate fodder for a holiday show, they are especially ripe for satire. That much is apparent from "A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant," the crafty, Obie Award-winning musical sendup by writer/composer Kyle Jarrow (from a concept by Alex Timbers).

A hit off-Broadway following its 2003 debut, "Scientology Pageant" boasts a bouncy, electronic pop score and cast comprised entirely of children, who hold the key to the show's success. The revised 2006 version, featuring new material by Jarrow and Next Theatre artistic director Jason Southerland, opened this week at Evanston's Next Theatre.

The success of the show depends upon the absolute sincerity of its performances. Director Kathryn Walsh understands that and, as a result, her guileless production strikes exactly the right tone.

No studied smugness mars the performances of the personable - but not overly precocious - pre-pubescent cast, featuring Jennifer Baker of Vernon Hills and Naperville's Sara Geist, who's rather touching as a vulnerable aspiring actress who yearns to be part of "something special." John Compton, Lauren Delfs, Jason Krause, Nicole Rudakova, Kevin Wyant and the charismatic Shaina Moriah Jones round out the ensemble.

Set in a fictional elementary school whose mascot is a turtle on its back (perhaps a subtle reference to the emotional vulnerability of Scientology converts), the pageant unfolds as a combination bio-musical (complete with a New-Age nativity), and mini-primer on Dianetics, clarified through flip charts and puppets. Comprised of peppy tunes and sugarcoated scenes, it embraces the conventions of a traditional grade school revue, right down to David Hyman's whimsical costumes which incorporate oven mitts, bathrobes, lampshades and a laundry basket to charming effect.

"A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant"

Rating: ★ ★ ½

Location: Next Theatre Company, Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes St., Evanston. (847) 475-1875, ext. 2, or nexttheatre.org.

Showtimes: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays through Jan. 3. Also 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 23. No shows Dec. 24 and 25

Running time: About one hour, no intermission

Tickets: $20-$25

Parking: Street parking available

Rating: For most audiences