Carolyn Defrin/Photo: Michael Brosilow

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The House Theatre’s sharp eye for design saturates its production of “Rose and The Rime.” The whole piece is a stylish endeavor, from Collette Pollard’s icy set design, to Lee Keenan’s lighting, to Debbie Baer’s hip, harmonious costumes, right down to the fancy-schmancy playing-card programs. But it’s difficult to cut through the gloss and whimsy to find a story worthy of the images that support it.

The small Midwestern Town of Radio Falls is imprisoned in an eternal winter by the Rime Witch. Indomitable Rose (Carolyn Defrin) vows to free her town, and sets off to battle the witch and bring back the Magic Coin that can save it. The multitalented cast sings, dances and capably handles the movement work necessary to the show’s look. But they are never given much to say, and the show suffers. Deconstructions are fun, but so is meaningful dialogue. (Lisa Buscani)

At the Chopin Theater, 1543 W. Division, (773)251-2195. Through May 9.