EAST HADDAM — Goodspeed Musicals has become known as a regional theater that takes chances. It has been a consistent champion of new works through its storied history.

The current offering on the legendary stage, The Snow Goose is more than just championing. Goodspeed commissioned writers Scott Gilmour and Claire Mckenzie to take on this ambitious project: a musical based on Paul Gallico’s 1940 novella of the same name.

The Snow Goose tells the tale of a friendship between a young girl named Frith (portrayed in East Haddam by Ashlyn Maddox), a local recluse named Philip (Eric Graise), and the bond they share over a goose they’ve nicknamed Princess. Set in England on the precipice of World War II, the story explores prejudice, love, and the regenerative power of friendship.

The musical takes many liberties and strays from the novella quite a bit, but it retains the basic plot structure and the immense heart.

Director Marshall Pailet has used his strong and innovative vision to bring this powerful story to life. There are moments in the show that are breathtakingly beautiful to watch. One such moment is the opening number, “Restless Sea.” The staging and intricate choreography by Misha Shields bring a chorus of hypnotically radiant lanterns weaving in and out, giving the audience a visual feast for the eyes.

Maddox brings a warmth and charm to the character of Frith, not to mention a voice to match. Maddox has the enormous task of playing Frith over a long span of time, going from a young girl into adulthood. She completely encompasses the role.

Not surprisingly, Maddox was recently announced as the lead for the much anticipated NYC revival of Spring Awakening. All who see The Snow Goose will get bragging rights to say “I saw her when” when her star continues to rise.

Graise brings a nuanced and powerful performance to the role of Philip. He is captivating to watch on stage and his ballad in act two, “I Owe it to Myself,” is heartbreaking and beautiful.

The centerpiece of much of the show is the Snow Goose itself, here a puppet designed by Nicholas Mahon. The puppetry on display is unlike anything seen before. Its ingenious design incorporates three puppeteers, led by Leah Hofmann, who operates the goose’s body while two other puppeteers control its wings. Hofmann’s credits include Broadway’s War Horse; Snow Goose is a worthy successor to that artistry.

Additional highlights include Sam Sherwood as The Bard, the show's narrator of sorts. He guides the audience through the story with ease. Connecticut native Ally Bonino plays Frith’s older cousin and caretaker Harper. Bonino has a commanding, yet comforting stage presence and a top notch voice to boot. Her big number, “The World Don’t Want to Know,” is a showstopper.

Overall, this is a very solid production. Seeing as this is a world premiere, it is exciting to see what next steps this ambitious new musical will take. See The Snow Goose at Goodspeed before it becomes the next big Broadway hit.

Performances continue to October 18. Visit goodspeed.org for full details and reservations.