B.O.T.C.H.

B.O.T.C.H.

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When three sets of transit riders—a brother and sister on their way to their aunt's, a group of tourists from Buffalo, and a pair of snobs—get lost beneath the city, they discover a veritable wonderland. While trying to find their way out, they encounter singing rats, tap-dancing mummies and the kids of B.O.T.C.H, as in the Bureau of Turmoil, Chaos and Headaches. Employed by the city, the organization’s members are responsible for keeping the subway "interesting" by causing gas explosions, street problems, delays and loud noises. Their reasoning: All the trouble helps New Yorkers maintain a strong work ethic. As they croon in the upbeat number "Noises I Like," no dilemma is too hard for us to handle. "If you don't like it, you can go home." The attitude-filled tunes are by the witty Daniel Feigelson and Jon Agee.

The children who make up the cast (all between the ages of eight and 18) are quite impressive: They sing, act, dance and deliver jokes with professionalism beyond their years. Matthew Hunter, who plays Bruce, a rat who spends his time making museum-quality paintings of cheese, is particularly thrilling. The entire audience—kids and parents alike—was in stitches as the 11-year-old scene-stealer sung and danced his way through "Just a Rat."

As usual for the curtain call, the ensemble sings "TADA! Here We Are," an inspirational anthem about the young company members’ lofty life aspirations. Don't be surprised if the tune inspires your little one to beg for a chance to get involved with TADA! We heard more than one plea on our way out.—Rory Halperin

B.O.T.C.H. plays through Feb 15. Tickets: $8–25.

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