In book form and on stage, “Treasure Island” is escapist entertainment, intended for a young audience. This theatrical version is nearly cinematic, with nautical sound effects and swelling music.

(sound)

Suddenly, there’s a colorful pirate coming down the aisle, with a battered sea chest on his shoulder.

“Fifteen men on a dead man’s chest…”

And as with any good tale of buried treasure, there are clashing swords.

(Clang, clang, “Arrrg!”)

A parental advisory. A few pirates do die, but somehow, there’s no blood. Fans of serious drama may also find that the acting in this show is broad, even cartoonish.
However, this show wasn’t designed for grownups. For a definitive verdict, I asked a genuine four-year-old, Jack Consulo, who came to the show dressed as a sea captain.

(Jeff and Jack)

There you have it. Let’s add that this is a full length play, over two hours.  Kids will enjoy the adventure. But if you’re got a really young buccaneer, you might pick a matinee over a school night performance.

"Treasure Island" continues at the Sacramento Theatre Company through November 2nd.