The Backstagers, Vol. 1: Rebels Without Applause

4 stars This gave me Steven Universe vibes? I'm here for it!

Well, this was charming. If you've read Behind the Scenes!! or Ouran High-both by Hatori Bisco-sensei–you won't find too much new here. The cast is adorable and diverse and a bit goofy, but they love each other and are supportive of each other. The story follows Jory, a new kid at school who would rather draw than join an extracurricular club. But then he stumbles upon the backstage crew at the theater and immediately warms to them. The weird thing here is that backstage, in the basement of the theater, there are magical rooms from which they can get the things they need for sets and props, provided they don't get lost or distracted by strange creatures (who are adorable–ECHO SPIDERS? TOOL MICE?). So whilst it seems to crib from manga, it's still fun and engaging.

this was so cute and whimsical. all the characters were fleshed our, the art was stunning, the world of being backstage with a magical twist was fantastic. i can't say enough good things about this.