GOLDIROCKS:
A New Spin on
Goldilocks and the Three Bears

(Starred Review / Editor's Pick)

North of the border, Canadian husband and-wife children's performers Judy & David star in their own sing-along television show (Judy & David's BoomBox) and have won a Juno Award (the equivalent of the Grammy) for their recording Livin' in a Shoe. Here, as the title of their latest work suggests, the singing/storytelling duo gives a classic tale a new beat. In a pleasing, musical-theater approach, several original songs and spoken passages tell the story of GoldiRocks, a blond-haired lass obsessed with playing her electric guitar.

Goldi's guitar is just right.

When Goldi's parents confiscate the instrument and insist she take a break from playing for a few days, GoldiRocks throws a tantrum and runs away, soon finding herself lost in the forest. A wise and rather highbrow owl shows her to a cozy cabin owned by three bears -where she can spend the night.The traditional story's plot then unfolds, with the bear family finding GoldiRocks asleep in their home.

Judy & David give a tour-de-force performance on this debut volume in their Once Upon a Time series of recordings. A gaggle of crisp, humorous characterizations and a smorgasbord of musical styles-from the klezmer "Porridge" to "Bird Brain," inspired by Gilbert and Sullivan's comic operas-will entice a broad range of listeners. Those who listen to/play the enhanced CD on a computer have access to a Goldi jigsaw puzzle game, downloadable coloring sheets, song lyrics and more.

PigMania: A New Twist on The Three Little Pigs, is a simultaneous release. Ages 3 -10. (Aug.)