By Donna Iadipaolo
The production, “Dot Dot Dot: A New Musical” bills itself as “not just for kids” and will be at the Michigan Theater on April 12. The show promises fun and entertainment for the entire family, blending heart, humor and inspiration.
“I think people need to go see this production because it’s a truly inspiring story geared towards younger audiences of course but people of all ages could learn from this show,” said Jordan Threatt, who plays Ramon in the show. “We explore how one might doubt themselves and their abilities but should never give up on following their dreams and chasing their passions no matter where they are in life.”
He added that while it’s mostly for younger kids, everyone will take something meaningful away from it.
“While it’s a show tailored for younger audiences, I truly believe that people of all ages can learn something from this production,” Threatt said. “I find myself still learning while performing in the show and letting myself fall into the lessons that this gem of a show has to offer. The themes and topics that one encounters while watching this show cannot in my opinion be for only one specific age group, it’s for any and all if you let yourself fall into the beauty of the messages, as I have.”
According to Ramon, the show’s messages range from “start with a simple dot and see where it takes you,” to “in moments of an artist block or frustration, lean into your family and friends and they’ll pull you right out.”
The story also highlights the power of creativity and imagination.
“…when one is overwhelmed all you need to do is look up and out and let your imagination soar and by doing so your creativity takes flight and truly magnificent things come from your heart and soul,” said Threatt.
Art as a central theme of the production
“Art itself unites, unifies, and brings together people from all walks of life,” Threatt said. “Art is a universal language through which we all share a connection.”
The visual effects are just as captivating as the message.
“We have see-through markers that light up in dark theaters, creating this magical effect,” Threatt said. “We also have paint brushes that light up in moments that the music is heightened to create this really cool moment for the audience, it gives a sense of ‘togetherness’, a theme that is cultivated throughout the whole show.”
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Threatt reflected on the meaning of the show’s title. “The title is ‘Dot Dot Dot’ and while this is only my opinion, I think the title means that all you have to do is start with a dot and you never know where it’ll lead you,” he said. “The title almost alludes to the saying ‘a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step’… You back that single dot up with courage, perseverance, love, family, friendship, community, belief and so much more and you’ll end up with something that’s almost too amazing to comprehend, and that you are the gift from which many other gifts come from.”
Many schools have already attended the production, with strong positive feedback.
The cast consists of five actors and one stage manager. Threatt called them a very small but mighty group.
“I’d say, to all of the kids, come and get inspired, come laugh and experience all there is to with this truly wonderful and heart-warming story,” Threatt said. “To all of the older audiences, when you come to see it, let yourself slip back into when you were a kid, all of the things you wanted to tell yourself and your friends and enjoy the themes and topics that are in this show, it’s for you too.”
Whether you’re a child dreaming big or an adult rediscovering the magic of creativity, “Dot Dot Dot offers a powerful message: every great journey begins with a single, courageous step — or dot.
This heartfelt production invites audiences of all ages to connect through imagination, art, and the universal power of storytelling. Don’t miss the chance to experience it live on April 12 at the Michigan Theater.
