LEHI — There’s something special about community theater. It’s often one of the most affordable ways to access the arts—but let’s be honest, the quality can feel like a gamble. That’s what makes Lehi Arts Council such a standout. They’ve built a reputation for consistency, and you can walk in confident you’ll see a production filled with talent, care, and thoughtful detail. Tuck Everlasting was no exception. Productions like this continue to build trust with an audience, and it’s clear that trust is well-earned.
Based on the beloved book of the same name written by Natalie Babbitt, this show is a perfect family outing—engaging, heartfelt, and accessible for all ages. Chances are, you’ve read the book or seen the movie, but the musical will still surprise you. Written by Claudia Shear and Tim Federle, and composed by Chris Miller, Tuck Everlasting tells the story of 11-year-old Winnie Foster, who discovers the secret of immortality with the Tuck family after drinking from a magical spring, forcing her to choose between an ordinary life and eternal life. The musical balances whimsy and depth in a way that keeps both kids and adults invested from start to finish. What makes Tuck Everlasting especially meaningful is the way it invites the audience to wrestle with big ideas—time, choice, and what it means to truly live—without ever feeling heavy-handed. Winnie’s journey is not just about adventure, but about growth and perspective, something that resonates across generations.
One of the most striking elements of this production was the set design. Scenic design by Garrett Roblyer and properties design by Alyssa Call were absolutely gorgeous. From the moment you walked into the theater, you were immersed in the world of the Foster’s wood—flowers and vines wrapped the space, creating a lush forest atmosphere that carried throughout the show. Even the smallest details, like tiny flowers lining the turntable used in multiple scenes, were thoughtfully executed. Twinkle lights added warmth and magic, and every transition—from the Tuck family’s forest home to the Foster residence, to the lively town fair—felt seamless and visually stunning. It was clear a great deal of intention and artistry went into every piece. The set didn’t just serve as a backdrop—it actively contributed to the storytelling, helping the audience feel the contrast between the safety of home and the wonder of the unknown.
The cast was strong across the board, with several standout performances. Adaline Strong as Winnie Foster was especially captivating. She may be young, but she had talent beyond her years. Her performance felt genuine and grounded, with acting that was both believable and emotionally resonant, paired with steady, confident vocals. Allison Books as Mae Tuck brought both warmth and strength to the role, and Chad Taylor as the Man in the Yellow Suit delivered a compelling performance with standout vocals and a presence that made him a delightfully engaging villain—if a villain can even be described in such a way. Each of these performers brought a clear understanding of their character, making their choices feel intentional and consistent throughout.
Beyond these standout roles, the ensemble added depth and energy to every scene. Whether in quieter moments or larger group numbers, the cast worked cohesively to build the world of the show, making each setting feel full and alive. Their commitment to the story was evident, and it elevated moments that could have easily felt simply transitional into something memorable.
As is typical for Lehi Arts Council productions, the technical elements were consistently solid. Sound and lighting were well executed, and under the direction of Kurt Elison, the show moved smoothly from scene to scene with a sense of cohesion and polish. Shelby Revill’s costuming also supported the storytelling, helping to establish time period and character without ever feeling distracting or overdone. Every element worked together to create a production that felt complete and carefully considered.
Lastly, choreography by Capri Gallagher cannot go unmentioned. Musical numbers were engaging and well-staged, adding to the storytelling rather than distracting from it. Group scenes, particularly those set during the town fair, brought a sense of movement and liveliness that balanced nicely with the show’s more tender moments. The choreography as a whole brought humor, heart, and spectacle, ending with one of the most memorable moments of the night: the montage at the end. It was impeccably done. Without giving too much away, I’ll simply share that it was thoughtful and emotional and carried the story as well as any film montage could. To travel through time and life transitions through dance without losing the audience is a truly remarkable feat. It’s not easy to create a moment like that on stage, and it speaks to the strength of both the direction and choreography that it landed so effectively.
Overall, this production of Tuck Everlasting is one you don’t want to miss. It will leave you grinning and maybe wiping a tear or two. It’s a beautiful example of what community theater can be when it’s done well—thoughtful, engaging, and full of heart. It’s the kind of production that stays with you a little longer after you leave the theater.
SHOW INFO: Performances of Tuck Everlasting run through May 16, with tickets priced between $13.44–$17.58. You can find more information or purchase tickets at https://lehiarts.org/tickets