“ The music is joyous and each story arch is creative and complete.”
“Our organization has produced a few of Free Spirit Plays and Musicals over the past few years. The kids truly enjoy working with these scripts. The material is accessible to all ages, the music joyous and each story arch is creative and complete. Each play we have worked with provides a wide range of opportunities for our students to broaden their understanding of the performing arts and develops their acting skills. The shows have nice pacing and flow that makes for wonderful entertainment for kids and adults alike.”
- Jennifer Webb, Artistic Director, The Stadium Theatre Performing Arts Centre
“The kids enjoyed the diversity of characters, songs”
This is our first Free Spirit performance and Aesop’s Fables was the perfect choice for our week long summer theater intensive program. The kids enjoyed the diversity of characters, songs,styles, and the theme of the show. We appreciated that it engaged our kids in stories of meaning while letting them have fun and develop theater skills. The flexibility of the script and characters made it easy to include everyone on Monday and then perform on Friday. The opportunity for set design and creation of props and costumes was also easily accessible to our students. Thank you for a great show.
- Heidi A. Peterson, Principal, Webster Middle School
“I definitely recommend Free Spirit Plays and Musicals!”
I am currently directing one of Free Spirits plays for a homeschool theater class I teach. The script is engaging and the music is great. We were given tracks with vocals and backing tracks, so the kids could learn the songs before singing along. The plays will accommodate dozens of actors, but it's also possible with a small group -- I have 11! I definitely recommend supporting Free Spirit Plays and Musicals!
- Jennifer Lade, Theater teacher
“I am always impressed by the quality of the scripts and the music”
Jen and Bob have created amazing plays for children, including music, that are delightful. As the director of a child care center in the area, my pre-k students attended a play last summer and it turned out to be one of the best field trips they ever had! They loved the performance and especially watching other children sing and act.
I am always impressed by the quality of the scripts and the music. The plays are fun for adults too - my husband and I enjoy them just as much as the children!
- Bette Lotterman, Teacher
“These scripts are true gems for schools and other youth organizations”
The original compositions in these musicals take both the performers and the audience to unique and unchartered territories of theatrical emotion and expression which transcend the obvious dramatic themes of the classics. Bob Nicoll takes the themes within these traditional stories, such as “the Secret Garden” and “Peter Pan”, and writes clever, creative, energetic and exquisite songs which children and youth can connect to in their own lives. Parents and audience members are delighted and enthralled by the music. “Discover Who You Are” from the “Secret Garden” is at once a coming of age song and a rebirth of our own youth. “A Pirate’s Life is Right for Me”, a song from “Peter Pan”, is fit for for any youth actor/actress wanting to express their personal power and independence.
The musicals are designed for inclusivity, so that many children can have an opportunity to shine in the final performance. Jen Davis' scripts incorporate touching sentimental moments with contemporary humor and lightheartedness. These scripts are true gems for schools and other youth organizations.
- Caroline Scott, Artist
“Much more delightful than your typical kid’s play.”
Let’s be honest. We have all been to youth performances and we go pretty much knowing what to suspect. Well I can assure you that a play by Bob and Jen will blow you away and provide a very good time. Their plays, and we have seen many of them, showcase the youth in very professional ways but still allow the kids to be kids and to have a good time. The music is original and exceptional. The writing is spot on and motivates the kids involved. Best of all, the performances last about an hour, which for me is about correct as I never have time to wonder when it will be over.
Like much of the community, we attend these plays because they are a good time—not because we have children to support. And we always look forward to what Bob and Jen will do next.
- Bruce Leymaster , Engineer
“ A dream team for writing and composing children's musicals”
Jennifer Davis and Bob Nicoll comprise a dream team for writing and composing children's musicals. Jen adapts the scripts from popular plays like Peter Pan or The Pied Piper by blending the traditional plot with updated details from contemporary culture. The tales' morals act as a cultural aura around the young actors' interpretations, shining on their talents and abilities, while Jen works her magic behind the scenes with expert instruction on speaking and body language, managing nerves, memorizing lines, as well as guidance on creating the set and engaging the theater group to work towards a great outcome. Bob's original songs perfectly balance a simplicity that children can carry well with complexity that is interesting for all ages.
The easily sung verses and refrains are entertaining blends of dramatic call and response choral arrangements, electronic pop light, operetta-like lines, and deeper monologues. Often the songs infuse the young actors with just the right emotion to really become their character and the audience is awed by the child's stellar performance. But above all, the musicals flow with humorous anecdotes of human silliness. We are reminded not to take ourselves too seriously and to celebrate the talents bestowed on our children through these fantastic musicals.
- Charlotte Eckler, Artist
“These pieces are so wonderfully crafted”
I had the pleasure of working with Bob on his first run of ‘Aesops Fables’ back in 1994. Seeing him create the score for this work brought so many childhood memories to life for me, as this was one of my favorites. It was a magical experience for me as an actor. These pieces are so wonderfully crafted that no previous knowledge of the fables are needed. Just let the score and libretto guide you! And enjoy!
- Derek McClellan
“Amazing plays for children, including music, that are delightful”
Jen and Bob have created amazing plays for children, including music, that are delightful. As the director of a child care center in the area, my pre-k students attended a play last summer and it turned out to be one of the best field trips they ever had! They loved the performance and especially watching other children sing and act.
I am always impressed by the quality of the scripts and the music. The plays are fun for adults too - my husband and I enjoy them just as much as the children!
- Bette Lotterman, Teacher
“The best musical production team I know”
The heart that Bob and Jennifer put into the writing, music composition and production is so completely evident in the vibrancy and joy of the performers and audience alike. This is truly a powerful transforming experience for all involved.
- Barry Hall, Music Director
“Subtle, yet powerfully evocative music”
Bob and Jen create timeless pieces that engage the child in all of us. In their musical The Secret Garden I was transported to another world of beautiful sights and sounds as experienced through the lens of childhood. "The Magic" is a particular piece of the Secret Garden stands out for me. In it the sounds evoke a lush landscape, using the words of the author Frances Hodgson Burnett, where magic really can happen and wonderment awaits around every corner. In another piece "Discover Who You Are" the listener is invited live authentically, in moment and to follow their heart. These and other timeless lessons are captured so beautifully in the music. I would recommend this musical to anyone wanting to entertain and inform with a beautifully constructed narrative and subtle, yet powerfully evocative music.
- Daniel Gregoire, Minister UUSGU
“Easy going creative, spirit is infectious”
Working with Bob has always been a great experience. His easy going creative, spirit is infectious and brings out the same in his students and others he collaborates with. He brings this to all of his work which is the main reason his students are so successful. His music is catchy, fun and at times very poignant and Jen's scripts are clear and easy to learn.
- Mary Scarlata-Rowe, Director, Enter Stage Left Theater
“Without their influence on my life, I would not be who I am today”
Starting lessons with Bob, in my late elementary school years, did not just open a window to learning the piano, but to many creative outlets that I still use to this day. Aside from piano, I took part in bands that Bob coordinated with other kids and engaged in the theater programs that Jen and Bob pursued in the summer time. Some of my best memories were made on stage in these performances, including the plays of Charlotte’s Web and Peter Pan. Learning with Bob and Jen was not limited to the basics of notes, rhythms, and memorizing lines. Being a part of their programs pushed me to achieve a growth mindset. I became more confident with my creative thinking skills, I fell in love with music and performing arts, and as a Senior in high school, I can safely say that without their influence on my life, I would not be who I am today.
- Leah Fitzgerald, College student and actor
“Perfect for kids who want an opportunity to perform onstage”
My experiences performing in this program have been overwhelmingly positive. I found my love through the arts through this program at a very young age, therefore allowing me to continue performing in high school and college. With incredible directors, this local theatre program is perfect for kids who want an opportunity to perform onstage. I will take the lessons I have learned in this program with me as I continue to pursue theatre in my professional career.
- Katherine Plutnicki , College student and actor
“The music and lyrics stirred the imagination”
As the wife of a parent of a daughter who performed in two of the musicals written and scored by Bob Nicoll and Jennifer Davis, I felt privileged and delighted to watch such creative, high quality productions where the children were as excited and engaged as the audience. The music and lyrics stirred the imagination and made me want to see and hear what was going to happen next! Bob and Jen have poured their creativity and knowledge into their music and lyrics creating a professional masterpiece.
- April Craft
“The story-lines were fantastic, the songs catchy & fun, something all ages can appreciate”
Our daughter Jess has been taking piano & guitar lessons from Bob Nicoll for the past 2 years, and is also a vocalist, guitarist & songwriter in one of his youth bands. She loves collaborating with her fellow band members. Bob has been an incredible teacher in guiding the band's creative process, while providing the encouragement & technical skills to bring her original songs to life. We are continually amazed and impressed by what she and her band have been able to accomplish in their time working with Bob. She couldn't ask for a more devoted teacher!
Although Jess hasn't participated in theater with Bob & Jen, we've been to see a couple of their musical plays and have very much enjoyed them. The story-lines were fantastic, the songs catchy & fun, something all ages can appreciate. The performers appeared both proud & excited to be on stage sharing their art with us!
~ John & Kim Nordquist
“A great program for anyone”
After 3 super fun summers I can definitely say this is a great program for anyone who is looking to start getting some experience in theater. Jen and Bob created such a supportive environment that really helped me get the confidence to perform and to keep performing!"
- Cicely Dunster, Student and actor in many of our shows
“The love and joy in the guiding hands are evident”
I so wish I knew of Jen and Bob’s Free Spirit Play when my children were little. For my youngest child art was in the boys locker room on a cart. (I did enroll him in WAM.) The other boy was special needs and always felt safe in art class where he usually acted out when he was struggling. My heart goes out to art teachers, but my point is that there just isn’t enough integration or room for kids to find out who they are in the public school system. Societies current ills are a reflection of this fact.
I have only been an audience member at several of these plays, but I make a point to get to them because they are so enjoyable. With the Nicoll and Davis musicals, the inherent creativity and the lightness of a child's' spirit is honored. Jen and Bob’s love of improv and spontaneity comes through in the music and in the scripts, but is also revealed in the handling of the little mishaps that inevitably occur before (kids get sick!) or during these final performances. It’s also fun to follow the children in their confidence and talent over the years.
My measure of good art is to see and feel where the artist was in his heart and mind during the process of making (stand in front of a Rothko for some time and you will catch my meaning). The kids under this couples' tutelage are having fun, the love and joy in the guiding hands are evident. That’s why I enjoy these plays.
- Laura Cahalane
“It is absolutely AMAZING what they accomplish”
It is absolutely AMAZING what they accomplish in 2 weeks ... The lines, music, stage direction, choreography, sets, costumes, props ... Looks like a show they've been rehearsing for a couple of months! And that's not to mention how much FUN the kids have doing it! Thanks Jen & Bob! We already can't wait for next year!
- Michelle SImpson
“The play came together beautifully, as always”
Thank you for another wonderful couple of weeks this July for Samantha and Evelyn. They had a really great time and the play came together beautifully, as always. Hats off to you both and hope you are relaxing and have an enjoyable August!
- Kate C.
“You bring the best out of our kids”
Thank you to you and Bob. You are so incredible. By joining your talents and incredible personalities, you bring the best out of our kids. Ava had a wonderful first theater experience. She especially enjoyed being and working with you both. She is looking forward to other opportunities. Love you both.
- Nuray Wallace
“Friendly, enthusiastic, and a lot of fun”
The Upton Youth Theater Program that takes place every summer is a wonder in so many ways. Bob Nicoll and Jen Davis are terrific instructors. I can't think of anyone I'd rather have teaching theater. They are friendly, enthusiastic, and a lot of fun to work with! Every year keeps growing and there is a multitude of helpers which makes it even more fun. Whether the helpers are former students, newcomers or annual helpers, they are great with the kids and everyone interacts with each other. For the acting part of the program, Bon and Jen create fun exercises and game ideas. This makes the practice fun and interactive for the students. Lastly, the theater program is a fun way for friends to get together and do something productive.
- Whitney Looper, Assistant Director
“Each experience has been overwhelmingly positive”
My daughters have participated in a number of Jen and Bob's two-week musical theater summer camps, and each experience has been overwhelmingly positive. Jen and Bob have a gift not only for writing playful, entertaining musicals, but also for working with young children in the theater. From the kids who love the spotlight to the ones who prefer to blend in with the crowd, it's apparent that they all genuinely enjoy being part of the show and are having a ton of fun up on the stage. It's always a joy to watch the final performance and amazing that they are able to put together such a polished production in such a short period of time.
- Vikki Ludwigson
“Everything flows so well with the shows”
Jen and Bob are great with the kids. The kids really enjoy the scripts that Jen writes, because they are fun to act out. Jen's scripts are also very inclusive; there is a broad range of opportunities for young drama students and their comfort levels. Bob is quite talented with creating the music. Everything flows so well with the shows and makes them that much more entertaining!
- The McCobb Family
“So lucky to have you”
Want to thank you once again for putting together your three bands and sharing them with Rock Off Main. It was a great night. Those young musicians are so lucky to have you.
- Diane Young, Amazing Things Arts Center
“Music and lyrics are moving, contemporary, and age-appropriate, and keep both cast and audience entertained”
As the parent of a daughter who performed in two of the musicals written and scored by Bob Nicoll and Jennifer Davis, I was deeply impressed with the high level of creativity in their productions. Their music and lyrics are moving, contemporary, and age-appropriate, and keep both cast and audience entertained. This is school theatrical material at the highest level of professionalism and polish!
- Win Craft
“Jen and Bob are extremely talented people”
I participated in plays written and run by Bob and Jen from ages 6-13, and helped with the kids in the plays as I got older as well, and I always had a blast! Starting out a shy kid, I was happy to take smaller roles in the play. However, as the years went on, both Jen and Bob helped me grow into my confidence and enjoy taking bigger roles. I really enjoyed singing the music that Bob had written, and the scripts were always well written and creative. Jen and Bob are extremely talented people, and I’m so thankful to have been a part of their shows.
- Abbey Basile, Student and actor in many of our shows