This time of the year, it’s important to take a breath,” says Erika Chong Shuch, director of the upcoming The Gift of Nothing at Marin Theatre.
The play is adapted from the book of the same name and, coinciding with the book’s 20th anniversary, will have its West Coast premiere at Marin Theatre. This show, being presented in partnership with Muttville Senior Dog Rescue, runs Dec. 13–23.
“That’s why the perfect gift from Mooch to Earl is nothing,” says Amanda Le Nguyen, who plays beloved comic dog Earl.
“Doing nothing with your best friend is a gift on its own,” agrees Jordan Covington, who plays Earl’s best friend, the cat, Mooch.
“I am so grateful for Amanda and Jordan,” Schuch says. “It’s obvious they are doing children’s theater because they believe in it. They have so much enthusiasm.”
If one is unfamiliar with the book, there’s a pretty good chance they’ve seen Earl and Mooch before. They’re the main characters in the Mutts comic strip by Patrick McDonnell. The award-winning comic has appeared in more than 700 newspapers in 20 countries. In 2005, McDonnell published his first book, The Gift of Nothing. And in 2014, along with co-adaptors Aaron Posner and Erin Weaver, with original music and lyrics by Andy Mitton, McDonnell adapted the book for the Kennedy Center Stage.
“I was part of the 2014 production,” says Schuch. “It was great. I brought my son to work with me, and he got to play in the Kennedy Center’s corridors.”
So what’s the show about?
“It’s about two best friends who have so much fun together,” Le Nguyen says.
“There is so much joy, and the story is good,” Covington adds.
“It’s a true family show,” Schuch says. “Kids will love the big emotions. Musicians will love the nuance in the songs. Pet owners will relate to the dog and cat shenanigans, and everyone will appreciate the central themes of celebrating each other, slowing down and appreciating what we have.”
“Plus, I’m in it,” Le Nguyen says with an irresistible grin.
“Plus, Amanda is in it,” Covington agrees with a laugh.
The exuberant energy of the two radiates through the room, before Le Nguyen says thoughtfully, “My family is coming. They are immigrants who don’t often come to my shows because of the language barrier. But this show is perfect. Music is universal, and the plot is understandable. It really is a show for everyone.”
‘The Gift of Nothing’ runs Dec. 13–23 at Marin Theatre, 397 Miller Ave., Mill Valley. Various dates and times. $25-$44. 415.388.5208. marintheatre.org.
