Maddi's Fridge

Talespinner Children’s Theatre (TCT) presents Maddi’s Fridge, a heartfelt new play by Anne Negri based on the book by Lois Brandt. This moving production explores themes of friendship, empathy, and community responsibility through the story of two best friends navigating the realities of hunger and how to support one another with care and compassion.

Performances run April 25–May 3, 2026, in Cleveland as part of TCT’s All the World’s a Page season.

“At its heart, this is a story about the transformative power of friendship,” says director Eric Schmiedl. “We hope this production encourages conversations about every person’s right to access healthy food and celebrates the friends, neighbors, and communities who support one another every day.”

The production features local actors Chloe Downey, Samia Keeton, and Michael Frye. The creative team includes costume design by Lainey Bodenburg, scenic design by A’Rhyan Samford, and Lindsay Mandela serves as Production Stage Manager.

Created for young audiences and families, Maddi’s Fridge uses imaginative storytelling and intimate staging to connect with viewers. The show will also be performed in schools, including CMSD. During the run, TCT will host a canned food drive to benefit a local neighborhood food pantry, inviting audiences to take action and support families in the community.