 |
| Kathy St. George. Courtesy Stoneham Theatre |
The
set, designed by Katheryn Monthei, was black and white with two levels and
featured sparkly stars and moon in the background as well as triangular columns
that were rotated depending on the scene. Music Director Matthew Stern led the
live seven-member band. Sound designer John Stone kept the volume of band well matched
with the volume of the vocalists throughout the two and a half hour production.
The
opening number, “St. Bridget”, was divinely performed by Ceit Zweil as Agnes
Gooch, and Cameron Levesque as Young Patrick Dennis. Both had beautiful vocal
tones and their higher notes were lovely to listen to. This number was a solid
start to the show and set the barre high for the rest of the performance. The
following number, “It’s Today”, showed that the rest of the cast was ready to
give the audience a top-notch night of entertainment. “It’s Today” was very
upbeat and celebratory and it was clear the cast was having a great time on
stage. Their momentum continued with their energetic performance of “Open a New
Window Parts I and II”, led by St. George and Levesque.
The choreography
in the song “Mame” was especially well performed. It was clean, crisp and
fantastically danced by the ensemble who were dressed head to toe in riding
outfits. It was certainly one of the best numbers in the show. While everyone
was cheerfully singing and dancing, young Patrick was off to the side silently
coming to the realization that his Auntie Mame was getting married and thinking
that this man was going to take his place. Levesque demonstrated acting skills
beyond his years as he silently felt his world crumbling in front of him. His
facial expression was full of uncertainty and sadness. As he started singing
the act one finale, he was embraced by his Aunt in a way that let him know he
would always be the main man in her life.
From
the moment St. George stepped on the stage as Mame Dennis in “It’s Today”, she
engaged the audience and kept them captivated by her charismatic performance
for the rest of the show. Not only does St. George deliver passionate vocals,
but incredibly sharp comedic timing and dancing that fully embodied her
character. Her witty banter with Vera Charles, played by Mary Callanan, was
highly amusing and thoroughly enjoyed by the audience; especially their
rendition of “Bosom Buddies” that included tight harmonies and was humorously
sarcastic. St. George’s interactions with Levesque are even more wonderful.
They were perfectly cast in these roles and their relationship is realistic and
genuine. “My Best Girl”, sung by the pair, is so sweet and tender sniffles
could be heard from the audience.
Other
highlights include a kick line in “We Need a Little Christmas” performed by
Mame (St. George), young Patrick (Levesque), Agnes (Zweil) and Tanner (Robert
Saoud) that received robust applause from the audience. Callanan’s powerful
vocals shined in “The Moon Song”, just as Zweil’s shined in “Gooch’s Song”.
Between them and St. George it was clear to see this show wasn’t short on
talented female vocalists. Will McGarrahan, as Mr. Burnside, was the quintessential
Southern gentlemen. His interactions with St. George were sweet and
tenderhearted. St. George’s whole-hearted performance of “If He Walked Into My
Life” was powerful and touching. One of the most hilarious moments in the show
was when Levesque played bartender for Mr. Babcock (Sean McGuirk) by mixing him
up a martini like a pro which generated chuckles and well deserved applause
from the audience.
Kathy
St. George as Mame is exquisite and her performance is not to be missed. This
family-friendly musical is a beautiful reminder of the importance of family,
love and a positive outlook on life. © Mame
plays at Stoneham Theatre (395 Main Street, Stoneham, MA 02180) until December
23rd. Tickets range between $20-$55 with discounts for Seniors and
Students. For tickets or more information visit www.stonehamtheatre.org or call the Box
Office at 781-279-2200.
No comments:
Post a Comment