“The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon,” performed by the Teen Actors Guild, opens Jan. 21 and runs through Jan. 30 at the Manchester Arts Center. 

“The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon” is a comedy play that combines all 209 stories by the Brothers Grimm into one hilarious show. This fast-paced performance turns these stories into madcap fun. 

Ranging from classics like “Snow White” to more underground tales like “The Devil’s Grandmother,” this show has something for the whole family to enjoy. 

The Manchester Arts Center’s Teen Actors Guild will put on “The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon” opening Jan. 21 and running through Jan. 30.

The Teen Actors Guild is known for stunning performances like 2019’s “Newsies” and, more recently, 2021’s “A Chorus Line.” Karen Lewis, local theatre teacher and aficionado, left her opening night review of “A Chorus Line” writing, “… a group of teens and brought out all that is magical about theatre! I laughed and cried and gasped and beamed with pride…” 

Now, the guild takes on “The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon” with director Vanessa Jarman. Jarman has been intertwined at the theater for many years. Whether as a dance captain or lead role, you might have seen Jarman before in a variety of shows. Now Jarman takes on a new challenge: directing. 

Directing is an entirely different thing than being on stage, and it comes with its own set of challenges. 

Jarman shares about her struggles in this new endeavor, “I would say the hardest part has been trying not to be nervous about mywork. I am surrounded by peers who have directed shows before and I would constantly fear that they would judge my work. Thankfully, I have a very supportive team that is upfront and honest if something doesn’t work but in a way where I don’t feel like an idiot for not knowing.”

Jarman’s cast consists of familiar faces at the Manchester Arts Center, but the titular roles are truly special. Brothers Jake and Jaxon Bennett made their Manchester Arts Center debut last February in “Clue: On Stage.”

Now, the real-life brothers perform as the on-stage Grimm brothers. Jarman writes, …the two characters [are the only] who don’t play any other part. This has allowed them to fully develop their characters and interactions.” 

“The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon” will be a time for all to enjoy. Jarman challenges the audience, “There [are] a plethora of pop culture references that are a clear marker for when this show was last updated. See how many apply to our world today.” 

So do just that, and check out the show at the Manchester Arts Center opening January 21.