Watch Kids' Reviews of
PLACE CALLED HOME, A

A Place Called Home offers a caring and creative behind-the-scenes look at young performers at Stages Theatre Company in Hopkins, Minnesota, as they prepare for the world premiere of a holiday musical. While mastering puppetry and building a musical ensemble, the young cast and crew gain far more than theater experience--they forge deep friendships and discover the profound meaning of "home. "I was excited to watch this documentary because I am familiar with the 2013 film Spookley the Square Pumpkin, and couldn't wait to see how they created a Christmas musical starring a square pumpkin! The format is beautiful, avoiding standard "talking heads" to take us right into the rehearsal hall to witness puppet choreography and choral practice. The camera work, audio, and editing are excellent. Director and videographer Steve Fischer delivers an exceptional film that goes way beyond standard "how-it's-made" documentaries, offering a 360-degree look into the production through the diverse viewpoints of the cast, creators, and theater management. The entire youth cast is worthy of praise for their diction, puppetry manipulation, and singing. I particularly enjoyed the vocal performances by Penelope Talatinick (Mistletoe) and Izzy Middlebrook (Spookley). Guided by Gorden Smuder and Bill DeLong, the puppets are eloquent in both design and movement. The holiday sets and catchy music--directed by Jeff Zahn and Joe Troiano--perfectly fit the seasonal spirit and the theme of belonging. My favorite scene is the intimate song rehearsal featuring Penelope and the music composer.

The film carries inspiring messages about collaboration, kindness, family, and finding your sanctuary. Ultimately, it reveals the power of creative spaces to help young people discover their voices, build community, and grow.

I give A Place Called Home 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults.

By Selene, KIDS FIRST!

A Place Called Home offers a caring and creative behind-the-scenes look at young performers at Stages Theatre Company in Hopkins, Minnesota, as they prepare for the world premiere of a holiday musical. While mastering puppetry and building a musical ensemble, the young cast and crew gain far more than theater experience--they forge deep friendships and discover the profound meaning of "home. "I was excited to watch this documentary because I am familiar with the 2013 film Spookley the Square Pumpkin, and couldn't wait to see how they created a Christmas musical starring a square pumpkin! The format is beautiful, avoiding standard "talking heads" to take us right into the rehearsal hall to witness puppet choreography and choral practice. The camera work, audio, and editing are excellent. Director and videographer Steve Fischer delivers an exceptional film that goes way beyond standard "how-it's-made" documentaries, offering a 360-degree look into the production through the diverse viewpoints of the cast, creators, and theater management. The entire youth cast is worthy of praise for their diction, puppetry manipulation, and singing. I particularly enjoyed the vocal performances by Penelope Talatinick (Mistletoe) and Izzy Middlebrook (Spookley). Guided by Gorden Smuder and Bill DeLong, the puppets are eloquent in both design and movement. The holiday sets and catchy music--directed by Jeff Zahn and Joe Troiano--perfectly fit the seasonal spirit and the theme of belonging. My favorite scene is the intimate song rehearsal featuring Penelope and the music composer.

The film carries inspiring messages about collaboration, kindness, family, and finding your sanctuary. Ultimately, it reveals the power of creative spaces to help young people discover their voices, build community, and grow.

I give A Place Called Home 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 12, plus adults.

By Selene, KIDS FIRST!

A Place Called Home is an inspiring behind-the-scenes documentary detailing the world-premiere musical Spookley and the Christmas Kittens at Stages Theatre Company. The film captures a talented youth cast as they master puppetry and ensemble building, navigating the creative challenges of bringing a holiday story to life. More than just a rehearsal diary, it is a touching celebration of community, artistic growth, and the transformative power of children's theatre.