Director Jerry Zaks has taken Dodie Smith’s classic tale to the stage. The 101 Dalmatians Musical is the top family musical to see in Boston this Holiday season.  This musical presents the topsy-turvy, inside out world of the Dalmatians from the dogs’ point of view.  Dalmatian characters are portrayed by adult actors while pups are portrayed by child actors. Humans are “differentiated” with exaggerated clothing and mini stilts that make them “larger than life.”

The tale follows the lives of Dalmatians Pongo and Missis Pongo who fall in love and are married. After a brief honeymoon “in the bushes” the Pongo’s are faced with the reality of impending parenthood. It is very well played. Their first musical number together “A Perfect Family” questions how hard parenthood could be. They’re both certain that their kids will be angels.  There is humor at many levels. No family member will feel left out.

Rachel York made me think Cruella De Vil had stepped out of the Disney movie and onto the stage.  She was wonderful and masterful. She brought forth an incredible lust for puppy fur. Cruella kidnaps the puppies and takes them to Castleville where they will soon become wardrobe. Pongo and Missis Pongo realize that their human “pets” will not be able to get their pups in time and realize it’s up to them to find the pups and bring them home. They send out the K-9 version of the Amber Alert and are soon on their journey.

I don’t want to spoil the adventure. My family enjoyed an exciting night of twists and turns. Something was there for everyone. Leaving the theatre I heard many people singing the catchy tune “Be a little bit braver”.  It’s still in my head at this point.

And let’s not forget the Dalmatians. The dogs were adorable. Making it more memorable is that many of them were rescued.

Probably best for children 4 and up (or a mature 3). Though I did see several toddlers be-bopping to the music.  It’s only here until the 27th. Tickets can be purchased directly through the Wang Theatre Box Office and range from $28-$75.

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