By Venus Zarris

Anung’s First American Christmas is an ambitious attempt at introducing Native American folklore to family audiences. Vitalist Theatre, in association with Premiere Theater & Performance, presents the Ojibway Indian mythology of animal sprit guides and dream catchers within the context of the Christmas story. Although visually exciting, it delivers a dream quest that is so frenetically chaotic, you struggle to follow the story or care about the characters.

Even for someone who has studied Indian medicine cards and animal guides, this world premiere adaptation of Carl Nordgren’s novella is ridiculously difficult to follow. Adding to the absurdly annoying storytelling gimmicks is a characterization of the narrative turtle played as a Robin Williams stand up routine. As if the story line isn’t already demanding enough, this ploy to create something contemporary that the audience can connect with only cheapens the already diminished source material.

Q. M. Quiney provides thrilling live percussion. Craig Choma creates a striking scenic design and Tracy Otwell’s charming puppet and mask designs are the most exciting and delightful aspects of the show.

Ultimately, too much bedlam is chocked in the 2 1/2 hours for adults, much less children.

1 1/2 STARS

(”Anung’s First American Christmas” runs through January 4 at Theatre Building Chicago, 1225 West Belmont. 773-327-5252.)

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