From lightsabers to stage lights: Cornell presents 'All Childish Things'

Movie lovers and theatre-goers unite in “All Childish Things,” a nostalgic comedy presented by the Cornell Department of Theatre and Dance Sept. 25–28 in Kimmel Theatre.

The play, written by Joseph Zettelmaier, is the story of four childhood friends who decide to plan a heist of the Kenner Toy Factory in order to steal Star Wars collectibles. True to the traditions of any good heist story, chaos ensues.

“I got to see the original production in Detroit when it premiered in 2006, and I just loved it,” said Associate Professor of Theatre Caroline Price, who is directing the show. “I am a pretty big Star Wars fan, and this show speaks directly to my type of nerdom. I love that it focuses on childhood friendship and the nostalgia of the 1980s. This was my childhood decade, and I love revisiting it.”

There are five students in the show and one student designer, as well as multiple students working on the crew.

“We are creating a world that holds a special place for Star Wars fans, and I think the audience is really going to love the details, but it wasn't a prerequisite to love Star Wars to get cast. But we do have some real nerds involved onstage and off in the creation of this production. It's been a joy to share this with them,” Price said.

Cornell College Senior Gabe LeFleur said he’s learned a lot while preparing for this show, especially since it’s his first time acting in a play.

“I had to learn the best methods for memorizing lines. I also had to learn how to imitate Chewbacca’s roar,” said LeFleur. “My character is Max; I love his humanity. I also like that despite his timid nature and his worries, in the end, he is still able to stand up for himself.”

Due to mature themes, this production is generally recommended for ages 16 and up.