Henry V @ Shakespeare and Company (Lenox, MA)

 

Ryan Winkles as Henry V. Photo by John Dolan.

Many questions floated around my head as I walked into Shakespeare and Company’s Bernstein Theatre for the opening night performance of William Shakespeare’s Henry V (one of his more popular history plays). What direction is the play going to go? Will it be a period piece or more modern? Will it be long? And probably the question that was on almost everyone’s mind: will I understand it? I perused the program looking for answers and saw that the show only had eight actors: four men and four women. I was instantly curious as to how that was going to be pulled off and as the lights dimmed I hoped for the best.

If you are unfamiliar with Henry V, it is the story of a prince turned king and his journey to repair his country, England, while also battling France. This intimate production puts an emphasis on the incredible language Shakespeare penned. From the moment the lights go up and the chorus begins the famous prologue: “O! for a Muse of fire…” the audience is drawn in and encouraged to use their imaginations throughout the coming journey.  

This production was masterfully and creatively directed by Jenna Ware. I can’t recall the last time I saw a ‘bare Bard’ production that was so excellently executed. A ‘bare Bard’ production is one that mimics how companies in Shakespeare’s day would have performed it: with minimal costumes and prop pieces in a bare space. This allows for the production to be performed in any space available because the actors bring everything with them.  The troupe certainly worked hard to create a play that flowed so easily from one scene to the next. The incredible cast includes Caroline Calkins, Jonathan Croy, Kelly Galvin, Jennie M. Jadow, Tom Jaegar, David Joseph, Sarah Jeanette Taylor and Ryan Winkles. All, but Ryan Winkles who played Henry, portrayed multiple characters each with their own mannerisms and way of speaking. By using various costumes pieces they would transform into different characters for each scene. Altogether, they were wonderful, however one stood out a little extra: David Joseph. This talented actor brought life, laughter and charisma to his characters and though each was different all were intriguing. He was certainly an audience favorite.

L-R: Sarah Jeanette Taylor, Jonathan Croy and Kelly Galvin. Photo by John Dolan

Wrapping up in two hours plus the 15 minute intermission, this play was undoubtedly one of the best I have seen of late. Yet, I was left wondering why the swords, though sometimes drawn, were never used.  The battle scene was done in a slow motion mime-like way with each character fighting their invisible opponent. It was really interesting to watch, but I felt let down at the same time because I had been looking forward to some kind of sword play.

If you find yourself in the Berkshires this summer I recommend heading over to Shakespeare and Company to enjoy the beauty of language mixed with a little bit of history and certainly some laughs. Henry V plays through August 23^rd, 2015. Tickets and more information on the play (which I highly recommend reading before attending) can be found at www.shakespeare.org

 

The Taffetas at Interlakes Theatre Meredith, NH

Emily Nies,Elise Watson, Hannah Zieser & Ari Raskin (Courtesy Interlakes Theatre)

 

The Taffetas pays tribute to the girl groups of the 1950’s as it gives us a singing sister group (The Taffetas) who are making their television debut on a show called “Spotlight on Music”. These four sisters, wonderfully played by Emily Nies (Kaye), Elise Watson (Peggy), Hannah Zieser (Donna), and Ari Raskin (Cheryl) bring smiles and comedy to their versions of some of the greatest 50’s hits.

The opening night performance of The Taffetas was also the start of the summer season for Interlakes Theater in Meredith, NH (in the heart of the lakes region). And if what I saw last night is any indication of the upcoming season, I am looking forward to being back in the audience very soon.

The best part of this show is the impeccable harmonies that these four amazing vocalists presented. I cannot recall the last time that I was so amazed at how well a small group of singers were able to not only perform perfect harmonies, but also continue to wonderfully blend throughout the show. It was fantastic! I know those ladies must have been working very hard this past week to create a unified voice while also showing their unique character. With every song and every solo, big or small, these ladies demonstrated their training, dedication to the art and their sheer joy and love of music. Lastly, what made the show stand out and not become another tribute concert performance, were finely placed comedic moments, quirky facial expressions and simple, yet precise, choreography.  

Emily Nies, Elise Watson, Hannah Zieser &Ari Raskin (Courtesy Interlakes Theatre)

The enthusiastic audience last night laughed and cheered the whole way through. A few comments overheard were, “We knew all the songs and could quietly sing along!”, “Those girls looked like they were having so much fun up there!” and “I didn’t know what to expect when we arrived tonight, but I’m glad we came. This is wonderful.” Now, I didn’t know all of songs like some people in the audience, but I certainly agree with all of their comments. Unfortunately, The Taffetas only runs until this Sunday June 28^th, 2015, but I highly suggest if you are in the Lakes Region to go check it out. It’s a wonderful night out with great music that may bring you on a trip down memory lane. Tickets and additional information can be found at www.interlakestheatre.com 

Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston's Guys and Dolls

Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston’s Guys and Dolls

 

Ensemble (Courtesy Reagle Music Theatre/Herb Philpott)

I could hardly contain my anticipation walking into the air-conditioned Robinson Theatre last night as the opening night performance of Guys and Dolls was minutes away. The opening announcement boomed over the speakers as the audience took their seats. The lights started to dim as the live orchestra began the lively Overture.

In case you are not familiar with the show, Guys and Dolls is a Tony Award winning musical comedy with music and lyrics by Frank Loesser and book by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows. In short, it’s a story about gambling gangsters, showgirls, mission workers and the chaos that erupts when bets are made, lost and won.

A fantastic performance was given by leading man Brent Barrett who played charismatic gambler Sky Masterson. His smooth, yet commanding vocals were mesmerizing. In his very first scene with Sarah Brown, played by Mara Bonde, he reminded me of Clark Gable and his portrayal of Rhett Butler in the classic film Gone with the Wind.  

Two standout performances came in the second act from supporting characters Arvide Abernathy, played by Terry Donilon, and Nicely-Nicely Johnson, played by Brad Peloquin. Donilon’s rendition of “More I Cannot Wish You” was wonderfully sweet and was sure to have put a smile on the faces of everyone in the audience. Peloquin’s performance of “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat” was high energy and a joy to watch.

I must take a moment to mention the fine work done by Choreographer Rachel Bertone. The ensemble looked like they were having a great time with energetic Musical Theatre Jazz style routines complete with individualized dancer tricks. There were more than enough high kicks, splits, turns and tricks throughout the show not only from the ladies but from the fellas as well.   I would have to say my favorite routine was “Havana” with its fierce Latin dance moves and plenty of hip shakin’.

Overall, this show was a fun night out and I think the rest of the audience in last night’s mostly full house would agree. Guys and Dolls plays from June 11-21, 2015 at the Robinson Theatre (617 Lexington Street, Waltham, MA). For information and tickets visit www.reaglemusictheatre.com