LOCKE & KEY

The concepts in this production, based on a graphic novel, are perfectly executed by a full cast. The work includes a great deal of ambient sound—background chatter, passing traffic, even the ocean—because it was recorded in various locations. This adds to the credibility of the story, which is about a strange family haunted by a magical history involving mysterious keys that open many things, including the mind. The large cast, including some familiar names from stage and screen, builds a world where almost anything is possible with the right key—which evil forces also want to possess. The large cast sometimes makes it hard to identify the speaker. And while the special effects are generally good, a few fight scenes are just a series of grunts and slaps, leaving the listener perplexed about what’s happening. The heroes of the book are children and teenagers, which offers some interesting scenarios. Kate Mulgrew leads the way with her perfect portrayal of an ancient grandmother with an evil streak. M.S. 2016 Audies Winner © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2015]