Stage Left: July 2014

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of August 1, 2014

As always, the choices are purely my personal opinion. Take with a grain (or a shaker) of salt.

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The Cabaret Project presents Faith Prince with Alex Rybeck on piano in Have a Little Faith on Wednesday, July 30, 8 PM as part of The St. Louis Cabaret Festival. "Prince has been dazzling Broadway audiences since winning the Tony, Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards for her performance as Miss Adelaide in Guys and Dolls, opposite Nathan Lane. She counts 3 additional Tony nominations and 11 other Broadway shows to her credit, including a starring role in this past year's Broadway revival of Annie. Faith's career has included roles in films and television and she has sung with major orchestras throughout the U.S. Her solo cabaret shows have played in New York at 54 Below and Joe's Pub, among other venues. Her recent 2013 performance at The Royal Room in Palm Beach, Florida resulted in the live CD Total Faith and her award-winning performance, A Leap Of Faith, was recorded at Joe's Pub and available on DRG records. Faith takes the stage in her solo St. Louis cabaret debut singing songs from her career as well as from her heart." The performance takes place in the Sheldon Concert Hall. For more information: thecabaretproject.org.

My take: Ms. Prince is a major Broadway talent and Mr. Rybeck is one of the more in-demand music directors in the Big Apple. Expect big entertainment when you put them together.

The St. Louis Cabaret Conference presents the St. Louis Cabaret Conference Showcase on Saturday, August 2, at 7 PM. "30 singers from around the country take to the stage in a celebration of their work. This culmination of the 5 day St. Louis Cabaret Conference has become an annual go-to showcase for cabaret lovers in the Lou! Join us in celebrating 30 new faces of cabaret! Directed by Mailryn Maye, Faith Prince, Tim Schall. Music Direction by Billy Stritch, Tedd Firth, Alex Rybeck." The performance takes place at the Kranzberg Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlouiscabaretconference.com.

My take: I have taken the Cabaret Conference several times in the past, so I know the level of talent involved as well as the amount of care taken in assembling the final showcase. It's always a wonderfully balanced, expertly directed evening featuring talent from around the country as well as from St. Louis.

Soprano Lucy Sauter
(Blance in Streetcar)

Union Avenue Opera presents Andre Previn's A Streetcar Named Desire, based on the play by Tennessee Williams, Friday and Saturday at 8 PM, August 1 - 9. Performances take place at the Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 Union at Enright in the Central West End. The opera is sung in English with projected English text. For more information, visit unionavenueopera.org or call 314-361-2881.

My take: I won't have an opportunity to see this until next Friday, but I'm putting it in here simply because it's the local premiere of a major work by an American compose noted equally for his work in the jazz and classical worlds. I can't think of a more appropriate person to set Williams's classic to music. "Mr. Previn has a fine ear for voices," wrote New York Times critic Bernard Holland of the work's 1998 premiere. "He knows how to flatter and coax it and send it gracefully from one musical episode to the next.....one had the impression that Mr. Previn had been writing for the musical theater all his life."

The Cabaret Project presents The Streisand Songbook with Ann Hampton Callaway on Thursday, July 31, 8 PM as part of The St. Louis Cabaret Festival. "Platinum award-winning singer-songwriter Ann Hampton Callaway celebrates the music of one of America's most powerful and enduring musical artists: Barbra Streisand. Singing timeless classics from five decades of the celebrated diva's career, Callaway crafts a loving musical portrait of Streisand, the musical icon for whom Callaway has written several personally tailored songs. A Tony-nominated actress (Broadway's Swing!) and multiple award winning singer, Callaway puts a unique pop/jazz spin on unforgettable Streisand classics from Barbra's Broadway years, through her film and pop hits. " The performance takes place in the Sheldon Concert Hall. For more information: thecabaretproject.org.

My take: Ms. Callaway is no stranger to St. Louis audiences, having made numerous appearances at the Sheldon and the Jazz Bistro. She has a voice that is spectacularly flexible, equally at home in jazz, Broadway, and cabaret.

Held Over:

Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical Always..Patsy Cline through August 31. "Jacqueline Petroccia and Zoe Vonder Haar star in the return engagement of the show critics called 'exceptional, must see entertainment.' The touching and true story of Country music legend Patsy Cline and her friendship with Texas housewife Louise Seger returns to STAGES this spring. Combining down home country humor, heartache and 27 of Patsy Cline's unforgettable hits such as 'Crazy,' 'Walkin' After Midnight,' and 'Sweet Dreams,' Always... Patsy Cline endures as a piece of genuine Americana." Performances take place at The Playhouse at Westport Plaza. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407.

My take: Call this a qualified recommendation. If you're a lover of Patsy Cline or country music in general, I think you'll have a great time at this show, which is really more of a celebrity impersonation review than a book musical per se. Jacqueline Petroccia captures Cline's voice and manner so accurately it's eerie and Zoe Vonder Haar is a hoot and a half as Louise Seger, the real-life Houston fan who became a close friends and correspondent of Cline. With over two dozen Patsy Cline hits performed to perfection by Ms. Petroccia and a six-piece band, the show is a real feast for fans. See my KDHX review for more information.

Photo: Peter Wochniak

Sunday, July 27, 2014

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of July 28, 2014

Looking for auditions and other artistic opportunities? Check out the St. Louis Auditions site.]

For information on events beyond this week, check out the searchable database at the Regional Arts Commission's events web site.

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Alton Little Theater presents 9 to 5: The Musical Thursdays through Sundays through August 3, at 2450 North Henry in Alton, IL. The show is based on the film of the same name and features songs by Dolly Parton. For more information, call 618.462.6562 or visit altonlittletheater.org.

Hard Road Theatre Productions presents 9 to 5: the Musical Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, through August 3. Performances will be held at Highland High School in Highland, IL. For more information: www.hardroad.org.

Photo: Peter Wochniak

The Cabaret Project presents A Cabaret Double Header with singer and pianist Billy Stritch performing I've Got Your Number: the Jazz of Cy Coleman, followed by An Evening with Marilyn Maye with Stritch on piano on Friday, August 1, 8 PM as part of The St. Louis Cabaret Festival. "Stritch is one of the premier singer-pianists on the New York jazz and cabaret scene, a Grammy winning songwriter and Broadway vet (42nd Street, Liza's At The Palace). In this brand new show, that recently played New York's Birdland as well as London (four stars in The London Times!). Billy explores the pop/jazz side of the legendary songwriter Cy Coleman. Coleman, mainly known as the composer of hit Broadway shows, including Sweet Charity, Little Me, Barnum, On The Twentieth Century, City of Angels, was equally celebrated for his well known “stand alone” classics such as 'The Best Is Yet To Come''Witchcraft' and 'It Amazes Me'... Marilyn's great career highlights include a Grammy nomination as Best New Artist, 76 appearances on The Tonight Show, with Johnny Carson, Billboard hits, countless club/concert appearances and leading theatrical roles. Her recording of 'Too Late Now' is enshrined in the Smithsonian Museum's Best Performers of the Best Compositions of the 20th Century collection alongside works by Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra and Judy Garland. Ella Fitzgerald called her one of the greatest singers she knew and critic Rex Reed states, 'She's the real deal, the surviving artist of the American popular singer.' After appearing in the 2006 New York Cabaret Convention, Marilyn's career exploded all over again. She is currently enjoying bookings and rave reviews throughout the country and is the toast of the New York nightclub, concert and cabaret world." The performance takes place in the Sheldon Concert Hall. For more information: thecabaretproject.org.

Act Two Theatre presents The Curious Savage August 1 - 10 in the St. Peters Cultural Arts Centre at 1 St Peters Centre Blvd, St. Peters, MO 63376. "Mrs. Savage has been left ten million dollars by her husband and wants to make the best use of it, in spite of the efforts of her grown-up stepchildren to get their hands on it. Knowing that the widow's wealth is now in negotiable securities, and seeing they cannot get hold of it, they commit her to a “sanatorium” hoping to “bring her to her senses.” In the sanatorium she meets various social misfits and in getting to know them, she realizes that she will find happiness with them and plans to spend the rest of her life as one of them. The dominant mood is high comedy, and the audience is left with a feeling that the neglected virtues of kindness and affection have not been entirely lost in a world that seems motivated at times only by greed and dishonesty." For more information: act2theater.com.

The Missouri History Museum Theatre in the Museum Series presents Flappers to Smashers: Women, Prohibition, and the 1920s Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2 PM through August 5. "A look at how the 18th Amendment changed women's lives." Performances take place at the Missouri History Museum at Lindell and De Baliviere in Forest Park. For more information, visit mohistory.org.

Photo: John Lamb

Stray Dog Theatre presents the musical Funny Girl Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM through August 9. "In turn-of-the-century New York, a young Jew from the Lower East Side dreams of becoming a Broadway star despite her unglamorous appearance. This fabulous musical follows the life and career of Fanny Brice and her stormy relationship with Nicky Arnstein. A true New York love story of a Ziegfeld Follies star." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

The Missouri History Museum Theatre in the Museum Series presents Glory the Gargoyle Finds a Home Saturdays at 11:30 AM through August 2. "A play for our youngest visitors. Glory is a gargoyle with big dreams, but she has trouble fitting in. Join her in her search to find a home." Performances take place at the Missouri History Museum at Lindell and De Baliviere in Forest Park. For more information, visit mohistory.org.

The Muny presents the musical Grease nightly at 8:15 PM, July 31 - August 8, in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. “One of the most popular shows in Muny history, Grease returns for nine nights in its first Muny production since 2007. Packed with explosive energy, Grease takes you back to a simpler time as “bad boy” Danny and “the girl next door” Sandy fall in love all over again. Join us this summer and share in this timeless classic.” For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900.

Photo: Peter Wochniak

Photo: John Lamb

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents the Neil LaBute New Theater Festival, Part 2 through August 3 at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle. The festival features professional, new and previously unproduced one-act plays 45 minutes or less in length, chosen from submissions to the festival over the previous year. The plays in Part 2 are JJ Strong's Comeback Special, John Doble's Coffee House, Greenwich Village, and Susan Steadman's The Thing With Feathers. For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

Max and Louie Productions presents Doug Wright's Quills July 31 through August 17. “This wickedly witty, erotically charged play is about the conflict between the imprisoned Marquis de Sade (infamous, irreverent literary bad boy of 18th Century France) and the keepers entrusted with silencing the perverse tales that drip from his ink-laden quill. De Sade's only sword is his pen; his opponents are armed with far deadlier weapons. Quills explores the delicate and often malleable line between morality and personal freedom, while satirizing the hypocrisy and convenience of censorship and sexuality.” Performances take place at the Wool Studio Theatre at the JCC, 2 Millstone Campus Drive. For more information, visit maxandlouie.com.

The St. Louis Cabaret Conference presents the St. Louis Cabaret Conference Showcase on Saturday, August 2, at 7 PM. "30 singers from around the country take to the stage in a celebration of their work. This culmination of the 5 day St. Louis Cabaret Conference has become an annual go-to showcase for cabaret lovers in the Lou! Join us in celebrating 30 new faces of cabaret! Directed by Mailryn Maye, Faith Prince, Tim Schall. Music Direction by Billy Stritch, Tedd Firth, Alex Rybeck." The performance takes place at the Kranzberg Center, 501 North Grand in Grand Center. For more information: stlouiscabaretconference.com.

Photo: Phillip Hamer

The Muny presents the musical Seussical the Musical nightly at 8:15 PM through July 29, in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "Making its Muny premiere, Seussical^TM brings fantasy to magical life on the Muny stage. Based on the classic children's books of Dr. Seuss and narrated by the mischievous Cat in the Hat, this delightful musical follows Horton the elephant in his quest to protect the people of Who-ville. Seussical^TM is the timeless story of being true to your word...not living in fear...and the power of believing in yourself. Don't miss it." For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

The Midnight Company presents Eric Bogosian's Sex, Drugs, Rock and Roll August 1 through 17. "Bogosian's solo shows, which also include DRINKING IN AMERICA, WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE and POUNDING NAILS IN THE FLOOR WITH MY FOREHEAD, are scorching social commentaries on the urban and suburban scene - presenting portraits of contemporary men, from the homeless to possession-crazed millionaires to fading rock stars - “scabrously funny ” (Boston Phoenix) and “combustibly funny” (Newsday) monologues exposing their hidden fears, hypocrisy and rage." The performances take place at Herbie's Vintage 72, 405 N. Euclid in the Central West End. A special pre/post-theatre menu will be available before or after the show, cocktails will be available for the performance, and live music will follow Sunday performances. For more information: midnightcompany.com

Union Avenue Opera presents Andre Previn's A Streetcar Named Desire, based on the play by Tennessee Williams, Friday and Saturday at 8 PM, August 1 - 9. Performances take place at the Union Avenue Christian Church, 733 Union at Enright in the Central West End. The opera is sung in English with projected English text. For more information, visit unionavenueopera.org or call 314-361-2881.

The Cabaret Project presents The Streisand Songbook with Ann Hampton Callaway on Thursday, July 31, 8 PM as part of The St. Louis Cabaret Festival. "Platinum award-winning singer-songwriter Ann Hampton Callaway celebrates the music of one of America's most powerful and enduring musical artists: Barbra Streisand. Singing timeless classics from five decades of the celebrated diva's career, Callaway crafts a loving musical portrait of Streisand, the musical icon for whom Callaway has written several personally tailored songs. A Tony-nominated actress (Broadway's Swing!) and multiple award winning singer, Callaway puts a unique pop/jazz spin on unforgettable Streisand classics from Barbra's Broadway years, through her film and pop hits. Callaway reveals how Streisand began as her role model and evolved into her mentor. Enjoy celebrating the extraordinary career of Barbra Streisand with “the gorgeous voice and unmatched musical intelligence of Ann Hampton Callaway” (Keith Lockhart, The Boston Pops)." The performance takes place in the Sheldon Concert Hall. For more information: thecabaretproject.org.

Take Two Productions presents the musical Tarzan, based on the Disney animated film, through August 2. Performances take place at the Bayless High School auditorium, 4532 Weber Road. For more information, visit taketwoproductions.org.

Over Due Theatre presents Willy Wonka Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM through August 3. Performances take place at the Olivette Community Center, 9723 Grandview Drive, in Olivette, MO. For more information, call 314-210-2959 or visit overduetheatrecompany.com.

The Hawthorne Players present the musical The Wiz, based on The Wizard of Oz, August 1 - 10. The performances take place at the Florissant Civic Center Theatre at Parker and Waterford in Florissant, MO. For more information, call 921-5678 or visit hawthorneplayers.com.

Would you like to be on the radio? KDHX, 88.1 FM needs theatre reviewers. If you're 18 years or older, knowledgeable in this area, have practical theatre experience (acting, directing, writing, technical design, etc.), have good oral and written communications skills and would like to become one of our volunteer reviewers, send an email describing your experience and interests to chuck at kdhx.org. Please include a sample review of something you've seen recently.

Saturday, July 26, 2014

"How to Succeed" at Stages is dressed for success

"Brotherhood of Man"
Photo: Peter Wochniak

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Who: Stages St. Louis
What: "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying"
When: July 18-August 17, 2014
Where: The Robert G. Reim Theater at the Kirkwood Community Center, St. Louis

You might think that a show like "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying," which was widely regarded as a timely musical satire when it opened on Broadway in 1961, would now look pretty dated. And you'd be wrong, as the big, bright, and tremendously entertaining Stages production clearly demonstrates.

Based on a cynical comic novel by Shepherd Mead, the Pulitzer Prize–winning script (by Abe Burrows, Jack Weinstock, and Willie Gilbert, based on an earlier nonmusical adaptation by the latter two) draws nearly all of its humor from satirical jabs at office politics, nepotism, managerial incompetence, petty empire-building, and other manifestations of corporate greed, stupidity, and general foolishness - manifestations that are, sadly, just as prevalent now as they were over fifty years ago.

"Coffee Break"
Photo: Peter Wochniak

Although originally drafted into the project somewhat against his will, Frank Loesser (one of the most musically literate composers of the post-World War II period) produced the smart and funny score, including one song, "I Believe In You," that has become a Great American Songbook classic. The Stages production retains all of the numbers from the 1961 original, including "Cinderella, Darling," the second act opener that was cut when the show was revived in 1995.

That makes for a long show—three hours with intermission—but Michael Hamilton's direction is so sharp and fast-paced that it feels much shorter. Stephen Bourneuf's inventive choreography helps keep things moving as well, with what looks like some clear nods to Bob Fosse's work for the 1961 original. His hilariously spasmodic moves for the caffeine-deprived ensemble in "Coffee Break" are a good example; they remind you of Fosse without in any way actually imitating him.

"It's Been a Long Day"
Photo: Peter Wochniak

Above all, though, what makes this production such a hit is a top-notch cast, headed by St. Louis's own Ben Nordstrom as J. Pierrepont Finch, who schemes his way to the top of the ladder at World Wide Wickets. Finch is a completely amoral character, which means the actor playing him has to make him appealing or risk losing the audience. Mr. Nordstrom hits exactly the right combination winsomeness and winking slyness, along with a fluid sense of physical comedy. I was reminded very much of Ralph Macchio's superb performance in the tour of the 1995 revival that played the Fox eighteen years ago.

As Bud Frump, the obnoxious nephew of company president J.B. Biggley, Joseph Medeiros is also a very strong and funny stage presence, with more of a sense of physical lightness and animation than I usually associate with the role. He doesn't just walk across the stage, he prances like a Don Martin cartoon come to life.

As Rosemary Pilkington, Finch's much-neglected love interest, Betsy Dilellio isn't required to do much more than be starry-eyed and supportive, but she does it to perfection and, like her co-stars, has excellent comic timing.

"I Believe in You"
Photo: Peter Wochniak

Claire Neumann is wonderfully sardonic as Rosemary's friend Smitty. In the dual roles of mailroom manager Twimble and board chairman Wally Womper, Bill Bateman looks and sounds like a Warner Brothers cartoon come to life, although his uniquely clear, high tenor makes it hard for him to disguise himself in the latter role, even with a wig and moustache.

Johmaalya Adelekan does some dynamite Ella Fitzgerald–style scat singing as the otherwise staid Miss Jones in the mock spiritual, "The Brotherhood of Man". Whit Reichert is a mischievously charming Biggley, continually besieged by his wife and desperately trying to placate his tacky mistress, Hedy Larue.

As Hedy, Heather Ayers displays considerable comic style, but I didn't find her especially convincing as the sex bomb whose very appearance turns every male character into a gibbering nincompoop. Steve Isom rounds out the principal cast in fine style as the conniving personnel manager, Bert Bratt.

The versatile members of the ensemble take on various smaller roles and dance with impeccable precision. I especially liked their work in "A Secretary is Not a Toy," a number that, since the 1995 revival, is usually staged in a way that implies that the secretaries are not only not toys, they're more in control of the organization than their male bosses might think.

Heather Ayers and Whit Reichert
Photo: Peter Wochniak

That and other minor tweaks made for the Broadway revival help to take the edge off the painfully dated sexism of the original, but what really changes it from offensive to laughable is the decision to keep the entire show firmly set in the "Mad Men" era. Jeff Shearer and Lou Bird's bright, Technicolor costumes, James Wolk's retro-modern set with its color-changing light panels, and Matthew McCarthy's matching lighting design all get the cartoonish look just right. And Mr. Hamilton's willingness to push everything right up to the line of absurdity turns it all into a non-stop laugh machine.

I could go on about all the reasons why this production of "How to Succeed" succeeds, but the bottom line, as they still say in biz-speak, is that this is a flawless mounting of a masterpiece of musical satire. It's also a show that ought to be required viewing for those boneheaded Congressional media blowhards who seem to regard the so-called "private sector" as the epitome of the American dream, rather than a growing national nightmare.

"How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying" continues through August 17 at the Stages theater in the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road. For more information, visit the web site.

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of July 28, 2014

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The Compton Heights Concert Band presents free Musical Mondays concert featuring marches, show tunes and classical favorites on Monday, July 28 at 7:30 PM. The concert takes place in Tower Grove Park at the historic Henry Shaw Bandstand. For more information: chband.org

The Compton Heights Concert Band presents a free Sunday Serenade concert featuring marches, show tunes and classical favorites on Sunday, August 3, at 7:30 PM. The concert takes place in Francis Park at Donovan and Eichelberger on the Compton Heights Band’s "Carol Joy Brooks Memorial" Stage. For more information: chband.org

The Lemp Neighborhood Arts Center presents experimental/avant-garde group Bull of Heaven on Saturday, August 2, at 8 PM. " When does music become more than music? For Bull of Heaven, an experimental/avant-garde group, music has always been more than simply sonic sounds. The Denver-based duo view music as mathematics, logic, creativity and talent." The Lemp Neighborhood Arts Center is at 3301 Lemp. For more information: lemp-arts.org.

The Scott Joplin House presents a Ragtime Rendezvous on Sunday, August 3, at 2:30 PM. " The Ragtime Rendezvous is a casual listening experience for ragtime lovers, held at the Rosebud Cafe adjacent to the Scott Joplin House. There are multiple pianos at the Rosebud Cafe for anyone who wants to play or just listen to ragtime. Snacks and coffee are available for a donation. You are welcome to bring alcoholic beverages or additional food." The event takes place at the Rosebud Café, adjacent to the Scott Joplin House at 2658 Delmar. For more information: www.friendsofscottjoplin.org

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents The Los Angeles Guitar Duo on Tuesday, July 29, at 7:30 p.m. "The L.A. Guitar Duo returns to the Tavern as they once again traverse the entire length of Historic Route 66 performing in cities, towns and roadsides from Chicago to Los Angeles as part of the Rifftime on Route 66 Linear Music Festival. The Los Angeles Duo, featuring guitarists Bryan Fasola and Donovan Butez, combines the acoustic sound of the Spanish guitar with modern, extended techniques and original compositions by the unique composer and member Donovan Butez. " The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents pianist and composer Dan Oettel on Friday, August 1, at 8 p.m. "Career music educator turned performing artist, Dan Oettel received his undergraduate and graduate degrees from SIU Edwardsville studying piano composition with the late Dr. James Woodard. He is an author as well as an awarding winning educator and composer whose works are available on Amazon, Kindle, iTunes, Rhapsody, and the other usual suspects." The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents pianist Katie Beth Smith in recital on Saturday, August 2, at 5 p.m. "Pianist Katie Beth Smith makes her debut at the Tavern with solo piano works by Mozart, Bach, and Chopin. She will also collaborate with mezzo-soprano Jennifer Brauer in songs by Rossini, Duke, and Rich, and with violinist Danika Hawkins in a work by Faure." The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: t avern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents tenor Nathan Ruggles, mezzo Stephanie Ruggles, and pianist Robert Valentine in a voice recital titled "Tell Me the Truth About Love" on Saturday, August 2, at 8 p.m. "Stephanie and Nathan will perform songs by Bizet, Britten, Bernstein, Wagner, Sondheim and more!" The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

Friday, July 25, 2014

At the Muny, Seussical's faithful, one hundred percent

Photo: Phillip Hamer

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What: "Seussical"
When: July 22-29, 2014
Where: The Muny, St. Louis

There may be a more whimsical, charming, and funny show out there with more heart and smarts than “Seussical” at The Muny, but if so I have yet to encounter it. This engaging musical stage adaptation of some of Dr. Seuss's most popular stories and characters by the dynamic duo of Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens is a must-see for anyone whose childhood included the infectious rhymes and loopy illustrations of Theodor Seuss Geisel.

Although poorly received by critics and audiences when it opened on Broadway in 2000 (it ran for only 232 performances, including 34 previews), “Seussical” was extensively revised for its first national tour; it's this version (the only one licensed by MTI) that's on view in Forest Park. This iteration of the show is a consistently entertaining homage to the work of the late writer and cartoonist that manages the neat trick of appealing to both adults and children. Our party encompassed three generations and we all loved it.

Phillip Hamer

You know you're in Seuss World as soon as you enter the theatre, as Robert Mark Morgan's bright, attractive set consists entirely of giant-sized versions of the books from which the story is drawn. A horizontal pile on the center stage turntable provides the main playing area, while open books stage left and right create places for the younger ensemble members to sit when they're not cavorting on stage. It makes for a nice change from the collection of flats that so often make up the bulk of the Muny's sets.

The video projection screen upstage center displays Nathan W. Scheuer's vivid renditions of Seuss's fanciful illustrations of the jungle of Nool, Whoville, and other surreal locations as well as live video feeds of The Cat on the Hat's occasional forays into the audience. Add Leon Dobkowski's imaginative costumes and Rob Denton's lights, and you have a design that perfectly captures Seuss's quirky, Dali-esque vision.

Ahrens and Flaherty's book is largely based on two of Seuss's better known tales, “Horton Hears a Who” and “Horton Hatches an Egg”. In the former, the soft-hearted elephant tries to save the inhabitants of the dust speck–sized planet of Who from destruction at the hands of the other animals in Nool who, unlike the big-eared Horton, can't hear the Whos. In the latter, Horton is suckered by the feckless bird Mayzie into incubating her egg while she flits off on a year-long vacation. In both cases, Horton's motto – “I meant what I said, and I said what I meant. An elephant's faithful, 100 per cent” – is severely put to the test before he's vindicated.

Photo: Phillip Hamer

Added to the mix are Gertrude McFuzz, the bird who takes an unwise number of tail-growing pills, and General Genghis Kahn Schmitz, with his war on people who don't butter their bread properly (shades of Swift). In this version of their stories, Gertrude is in love with Horton and grows her tail to attract his attention, while Schmitz becomes a resident of Who. That last bit doesn't entirely work for me, though, as it adds a dark element that feels out of synch with the show's overall tone.

JoJo, whose insistence on having the wrong kind of “thinks” gets him reprimanded by his dad, the Mayor of Whoville, is here as well, although the Muny production has made him female. Narrating it all and taking on multiple small parts is The Cat in the Hat. Altogether the script drawn from around two dozen Seuss books. Even The Grinch and Yertle the Turtle get cameo appearances.

Ahrens and Flaherty are versatile songwriters, and their score for “Suessical” is a lively and often memorable mix of styles, from Horton's tender ballad “Alone in the Universe” to the brassy ‘60s soul of the Sour Kangaroo's “Biggest Blame Fool.” Ms. Ahrens's lyrics are unfailingly clever and very much in the fanciful spirit of the original books.

Photo: Phillip Hamer

The cast of “Seussical” just couldn't be better. Stephen Wallem has the most to do as Horton, and he does it impeccably, radiating well-intentioned naïveté and continually baffled at the refusal of his fellow Noolians to understand that “a person's a person, no matter how small.” As The Cat in the Hat, John Tartaglia, who did such a fine job directing the Muny's “Tarzan” last month, demonstrates that he's every bit as skilled a performer as he is a director. He sings, dances, clowns about and generally acts as a high-energy presence throughout the evening.

Although only a high school senior, Abagail Isom (of St. Louis's theatrical Isom family), is already a Muny veteran and a thoroughly appealing JoJo. Julia Murney is the perfect vamp as the irresponsible Mayzie while Kirsten Wyatt is a totally lovable Gertrude McFuzz.

Liz Mikel is all big-voiced sass and attitude as Horton's nemesis, the Sour Kangaroo. The young ensemble member who plays the Young Kangaroo is, alas, uncredited. Whoever she is, she does a wonderful job of mimicking the older character in her own way.

Allyson Kaye Daniel, Jessica Lea Patty, and Shea Renne are great fun as the Bird Girls. Raymond J. Lee, Blakely Slaybaugh, and Omari Tau impress with the acrobatic antics as the Wickersham Brothers, a trio of bullying monkeys.

Photo: Phillip Hamer

Gary Glasgow and St. Louis's own April Strelinger are the archetypical worried parents in their duet “How to Raise a Child” and James Anthony has the right level of foolish bluster as General Genghis Khan Schmitz.

What with the nineteen named roles, the ensemble, and the Youth Chorus, the stage is sometimes filled to capacity, but director and choreographer Dan Knechtges insures that it never looks crowded. His choreography is consistently creative and intelligently tailored to the skill levels of the performers, so that even the youngest members of the cast get steps that makes them look good.

Valerie Gebert skillfully conducts the Muny orchestra, which sounds wonderful as always.

The late Theodor Seuss Geisel was a lifelong liberal Democrat who (according to Jonathan Cott's “Pipers at the Gates of Dawn: The Wisdom of Children's Literature”) once described his work as “subversive as hell.” “Seussical” stays true to that aspect of his work as well, and not just with the obvious anti-war message of the General Schmitz subplot.

Photo: Philip Hamer

Running through the show is a message about the importance of imagination, sticking to your guns in the face of opposition, and refusing to be cowed by conformity. “She was never any trouble,” lament JoJo's parents, “till she started thinking Thinks,” but it's precisely JoJo's unconventional Thinks that eventually save Whoville from destruction. In the same vein, when the Sour Kangaroo complains that “somebody's thinking different from us,” she's giving voice to the kind of mindless tribalism that always poisons political discourse. When Horton is put on trial for what having subversive ideas, it's hard not to recall Geiesel's sharp criticism of the late Senator MaCarthy's witch hunts in the 1950s. Whether the audience is aware of it or not, they're getting an object lesson in the evils of conformity and the value of creativity.

But then, this entire production is a testament to imagination and creativity. It is easily the best thing I have seen at the Muny this season. It really is fun for the whole family and, at only two hours and a quarter including intermission, it's not so long that smaller fry will get restless, especially given the brisk pacing and unflagging inventiveness of the production. Just go see it, OK?

“Seussical” runs through Monday, July 28, at 8:15 p.m. on the Muny's outdoor stage in Forest Park. For more information, visit their web site.

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of July 25, 2014

As always, the choices are purely my personal opinion. Take with a grain (or a shaker) of salt.

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Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying through August 17. "Big business means big laughs in this delightfully clever lampoon of life on the corporate ladder. A tune-filled comic gem that took Broadway by storm winning both the Tony Award for Best Musical and a Pulitzer Prize, How to Succeed...boasts an exhilarating score by Frank Loesser including “I Believe in You,” “Brotherhood of Man,” and “The Company Way.” Bustling with humor, romance and song, this swingin' 60s send-up of Madison Avenue charts the spectacular rise (in record time!) of an ambitious young window washer to VP of Advertising!" Performances take place in the Robert G. Reim Theatre at the Kirkwood Community Center, 111 South Geyer Road in Kirkwood. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407.

My take: It's a sad commentary on the state of the nation that the cheerfully cynical satire of the mendacity, mediocrity, and Machiavellian backstabbing of corporate America that makes up the book of "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying" is as relevant now as it was when the show opened back in 1961. The Stages production is a big, bright, hilarious technicolor cartoon that keeps the action firmly in the "Mad Men" era, so its sexism feels funny rather than creepy. The cast is wonderful, headed by Ben Nordstrom as perhaps the ideal J. Pierpont Finch.

COCA Theatre Company presents the musical Ragtime Friday at 7 PM and Saturday at 2 and 7 PM, July 25 and 26. “COCA Theatre Company (CTC) presents Ragtime, with book by Terrence McNally, music by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and based on the novel by E.L. Doctorow. The COCA Summer Musical celebrates its 10th anniversary with this powerful portrait of life in turn-of-the-century America. Ragtime draws upon the era's rich and varied music to tell the story of three extraordinary families struggling to make sense of life in America. In honor of the anniversary, the cast includes students chosen by area-wide audition as well as CTC alumni from the last 10 years of COCA Summer Musicals. This CTC production is directed by Grace Austin, with musical direction by Adaron Jackson and choreography by Lee Nolting and Chris Page. Recommended for teens and adults.” COCA is at 524 Trinity in University City. For more information, call (314) 725-6555 or visit www.cocastl.org.

My take: As I note in my review of the other big Flaherty and Ahrens show in town, "Seussical," these folks are the dynamic duo of musical theatre. They're versatile and eclectic songwriters, and their score for "Ragtime" is one of their best. The show distills the essence of Doctorow's novel and serves as a reminder that the alleged "good old days" were nothing of the sort.

Photo: Phillip Hamer

The Muny presents the musical Seussical the Musical nightly at 8:15 PM through Monday, July 29, in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "Making its Muny premiere, Seussical^TM brings fantasy to magical life on the Muny stage. Based on the classic children's books of Dr. Seuss and narrated by the mischievous Cat in the Hat, this delightful musical follows Horton the elephant in his quest to protect the people of Who-ville. Seussical^TM is the timeless story of being true to your word...not living in fear...and the power of believing in yourself. Don't miss it." For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900.

My take: As I note in my review for KDHX, both this show and this production of it are, as Horton the elephant might say, faithful to Seuss, one hundred percent. There may be a more whimsical, charming, and funny show out there right now, but if so I don't know what it might be.

Family Musical Theater presents Sondheim's Sweeney Todd Thursday through Saturday at 8 PM and Sunday at 2 PM, July 25-27, at the Ivory Theatre, 7622 Michigan. For more information, visit familymusical.org or call 314-571-9579.

My take: I'm second to none in my admiration of what is probably Sondheim's greatest work. In his review for KDHX, Bob Wilcox describes this production as "imaginative and intelligent" and heaps praise on everyone in the cast.

Held Over:

Photo: Peter Wochniak

Sunday, July 20, 2014

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of July 21, 2014

Looking for auditions and other artistic opportunities? Check out the St. Louis Auditions site.]

For information on events beyond this week, check out the searchable database at the Regional Arts Commission's events web site.

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Alton Little Theater presents 9 to 5: The Musical Thursdays through Sundays, July 24 - August 3, at 2450 North Henry in Alton, IL. The show is based on the film of the same name and features songs by Dolly Parton. For more information, call 618.462.6562 or visit altonlittletheater.org.

Hard Road Theatre Productions presents 9 to 5: the Musical Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, July 25 - August 3. Performances will be held at Highland High School in Highland, IL. For more information: www.hardroad.org.

Photo: Peter Wochniak

Stages St. Louis presents the musical Always..Patsy Cline through August 31. "Jacqueline Petroccia and Zoe Vonder Haar star in the return engagement of the show critics called 'exceptional, must see entertainment.' The touching and true story of Country music legend Patsy Cline and her friendship with Texas housewife Louise Seger returns to STAGES this spring. Combining down home country humor, heartache and 27 of Patsy Cline's unforgettable hits such as 'Crazy,' 'Walkin' After Midnight,' and 'Sweet Dreams,' Always... Patsy Cline endures as a piece of genuine Americana." Performances take place at The Playhouse at Westport Plaza. For more information, visit stagesstlouis.org or call 314-821-2407. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Whitecliffe Summer Playhouse presents the Cole Porter musical Anything Goes July 24 - 27 on the outdoor stage in Whitecliff Park. For more information: www.playhouseproductions.org

The Bissell Mansion Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre presents The Dapper Flappers through July 27. The Bissell Mansion is at 4426 Randall Place. For more information: bissellmansiontheatre.com

St. Charles Community College presents the musical Dirty Rotten Scoundrels Tuesday through Sunday, July 22-27. Performances take place in the Donald D. Shook Fine Arts Building on the campus at 4601 Mid Rivers Mall Drive in Cottleville, MO. For more information, call 636-922-8050 or visit stchas.edu.

The Missouri History Museum Theatre in the Museum Series presents Flappers to Smashers: Women, Prohibition, and the 1920s Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2 PM through August 5. "A look at how the 18th Amendment changed women's lives." Performances take place at the Missouri History Museum at Lindell and De Baliviere in Forest Park. For more information, visit mohistory.org.

Photo: Tom Gannam

Stray Dog Theatre presents the musical Funny Girl Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 PM July 24 - August 9. "In turn-of-the-century New York, a young Jew from the Lower East Side dreams of becoming a Broadway star despite her unglamorous appearance. This fabulous musical follows the life and career of Fanny Brice and her stormy relationship with Nicky Arnstein. A true New York love story of a Ziegfeld Follies star." Performances take place at The Tower Grove Abbey, 2336 Tennessee. For more information, visit straydogtheatre.org or call 314-865-1995.

The Missouri History Museum Theatre in the Museum Series presents Glory the Gargoyle Finds a Home Saturdays at 11:30 AM through August 2. "A play for our youngest visitors. Glory is a gargoyle with big dreams, but she has trouble fitting in. Join her in her search to find a home." Performances take place at the Missouri History Museum at Lindell and De Baliviere in Forest Park. For more information, visit mohistory.org.

St. Louis Actors' Studio presents the Neil LaBute New Theater Festival, Part 2 July 25 - August 3 at the Gaslight Theatre, 358 North Boyle. The festival features professional, new and previously unproduced one-act plays 45 minutes or less in length, chosen from submissions to the festival over the previous year. The plays in Part 2 are JJ Strong's Comeback Special, John Doble's Coffee House, Greenwich Village, and Susan Steadman's The Thing With Feathers. For more information, call 314-458-2978 or visit stlas.org.

COCA Theatre Company presents the musical Ragtime Friday at 7 PM and Saturday at 2 and 7 PM, July 25 and 26. “COCA Theatre Company (CTC) presents Ragtime, with book by Terrence McNally, music by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and based on the novel by E.L. Doctorow. The COCA Summer Musical celebrates its 10th anniversary with this powerful portrait of life in turn-of-the-century America. Ragtime draws upon the era's rich and varied music to tell the story of three extraordinary families struggling to make sense of life in America. In honor of the anniversary, the cast includes students chosen by area-wide audition as well as CTC alumni from the last 10 years of COCA Summer Musicals. This CTC production is directed by Grace Austin, with musical direction by Adaron Jackson and choreography by Lee Nolting and Chris Page. Recommended for teens and adults.” COCA is at 524 Trinity in University City. For more information, call (314) 725-6555 or visit www.cocastl.org.

The Muny presents the musical Seussical the Musical nightly at 8:15 PM, July 22-29, in the outdoor theatre in Forest Park. "Making its Muny premiere, Seussical^TM brings fantasy to magical life on the Muny stage. Based on the classic children's books of Dr. Seuss and narrated by the mischievous Cat in the Hat, this delightful musical follows Horton the elephant in his quest to protect the people of Who-ville. Seussical^TM is the timeless story of being true to your word...not living in fear...and the power of believing in yourself. Don't miss it." For more information, visit muny.org or call 314-361-1900. Read the 88.1 KDHX review!

Actors and Artists of the Riverbend present the Lieber and Stoller musical Smokey Joe's Café Friday and Saturday at 7:30 PM and Sunday at 2 PM, July 25 - 27. Performances take place at the Nazarene Community Center in Roxana, IL. All proceeds from the show will benefit the Alton Youth Symphony. For more information: www.riverbender.com.

Family Musical Theater presents Sondheim's Sweeney Todd Thursday through Saturday at 8 PM and Sunday at 2 PM, July 25-27, at the Ivory Theatre, 7622 Michigan. For more information, visit familymusical.org or call 314-571-9579.

Take Two Productions presents the musical Tarzan, based on the Disney animated film, July 25 - August 2. Performances take place at the Bayless High School auditorium, 4532 Weber Road. For more information, visit taketwoproductions.org.

Over Due Theatre presents Willy Wonka Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM and Sundays at 2 PM, July 25 - August 3. Performances take place at the Olivette Community Center, 9723 Grandview Drive, in Olivette, MO. For more information, call 314-210-2959 or visit overduetheatrecompany.com.

Insight Theatre Company presents the musical The Wizard of Oz July 25-27. "Insight Theatre's student interns present this timeless tale of Dorothy and her unplanned trip to the land of Oz. Based on the book by L. Frank Baum, this family-friendly production brings favorite characters such as the Scarecrow, Tin Man, Cowardly Lion, Glinda to Good Witch and the Wicked Witch of the West to life. As they travel the yellow brick road, Dorothy and her friends will encounter Munchkins, fend off flying monkeys and learn that there is “no place like home.” Performances take place in the Heagney Theatre, 530 East Lockwood on the campus of Nerinx Hall High School in Webster Groves. For more information, call 314-556-1293 or visit insighttheatrecompany.com.

Saturday, July 19, 2014

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of July 21, 2014

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The Compton Heights Concert Band presents free Musical Mondays concert featuring marches, show tunes and classical favorites on Monday, July 21 at 7:30 PM. The concert takes place in Tower Grove Park at the historic Henry Shaw Bandstand. For more information: chband.org

The Compton Heights Concert Band presents a free Sunday Serenade concert featuring marches, show tunes and classical favorites on Sunday, July 27, at 7:30 PM. The concerts takes place in Francis Park at Donovan and Eichelberger on the Compton Heights Band’s "Carol Joy Brooks Memorial" Stage. For more information: chband.org

The Gateway Festival Orchestra presents Bright Lights of Broadway, a free concert on Sunday, July 27, at 7:30 PM. "Enjoy a free live concert by a fifty-piece professional orchestra. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket for relaxing on the grass in beautiful Brookings Quadrangle. Parking is free and plentiful. Ted Drewes Frozen Custard is available for purchase, and children receive an attendance prize. There is a pre-concert discussion at 7:10 pm. The concert begins at 7:30 and includes Rodgers/Hammerstein: South Pacific – Symphonic Scenario, Leigh/Darion: Man of La Mancha Selections, Lerner/Loewe: My Fair Lady Selections, Styne/Sondheim: Gypsy Selections, Harbach/Yordy/Coker: Booth Selections, arr. Sayer: Jerome Robbins’ Broadway, Rodgers/Hammerstein: Oklahoma Selections. The vocalists will be Keith Boyer, tenor and Jane Jennings, soprano." The concert takes place at the Brookings Quadrangle on the Washington University campus. For more information: www.gatewayfestivalorchestra.org

The Tavern of Fine Arts presents an open stage recital by students of the St. Louis Childbloom Guitar Program on Saturday, July 26, at 4 p.m. The Tavern of Fine Arts is at 313 Belt in the Debaliviere Place neighborhood. For more information: tavern-of-fine-arts.blogspot.com.

Stage Left

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of August 1, 2014

Sunday, July 27, 2014

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of July 28, 2014

Saturday, July 26, 2014

"How to Succeed" at Stages is dressed for success

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of July 28, 2014

Friday, July 25, 2014

At the Muny, Seussical's faithful, one hundred percent

Chuck's Choices for the weekend of July 25, 2014

Sunday, July 20, 2014

St. Louis theatre calendar for the week of July 21, 2014

Saturday, July 19, 2014

St. Louis classical calendar for the week of July 21, 2014

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