By June S. April

STAMFORD — A pleasant and entertaining presentation, All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten, currently at Stamford TheatreWorks, is also poignant and philosophical in nature. Playing through May 14 at the intimate theatre on the campus of Sacred Heart Academy, this production is appropriate mostly for adults and older children.

Adapted primarily from the book of the same name, segments are also drawn from seven other books written by Robert Fulghum. This multi-talented man has led a fascinating life, ranging from digging ditches to becoming a Unitarian minister.

The staged version of one of his most celebrated books, conceived and adapted by Ernest Zulia, joyfully and sensitively explores life’s journey, ranging from birth to death. The production opens with a vignette that figures around a blackboard that has five statements chalked on it: Share, Play Fair, Be Aware of Wonder, Look, and We All Start With The Same Basic Rules, Living Them Out Is The Challenge. The seven members of the cast romp through this first number, setting the pace for an upbeat play.

 There are five main characters: Larry Collis, Jay Montgomery, Ronald Wyche, Rebecca Hoodwin and Fay Ann Lee. Patrick McCluskey plays several roles, and also serves as a musician. Sariva Goetz is truly the star of the show. Not only does she accompany the play as the solo pianist, but she occasionally assumes acting parts and serves as the narrator.

The seven songs that are integrated into and enhance the play were created by David Caldwell. His lyrics and melodies are delightful and moving, especially “Reflect the Light,”  “Uh-Oh,” and “The Stuff in the Sink.” The gospel-like “Reflect the Light” is mesmerizingly sung by Ronald Wyche, who also, with the cast, sings it as a reprise at the end of the show.

The “Uh-Oh” song at the start of Act Two is deliciously funny and immediately sets an upbeat mood for the second half of the play.

Set decorator Pearl Broms and scenic designer Warren Karp have created a basic, functional and colorful setting using brightly colored geometric forms that could be transformed into anything a child’s imagination could create.

Directed by Stamford TheatreWorks artistic director Steve Karp, All I Really Need to Know I learned in Kindergarten is an amusing and enlightening production. What with the very reasonable price of tickets (which also includes discounts for senior citizens, students and groups), and the ease of parking, it’s a great way to spend a few dollars and a few hours.

(For information and to reserve tickets call 203/359-4414.)