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| Charissa Bertels in "My 80-Year-Old Boyfriend". Photo by Meghan Moore. |
Closing
out the season at Merrimack Repertory Theatre is the world premiere production
of ‘My 80-Year-Old Boyfriend’ conceived and performed by Charissa Bertels, with
book and lyrics by Christian Duhamel, and music and lyrics by Edward Bell. It’s
the story of an actress, Charissa, and her much older companion, Milton, from whom
she learns so much. Its message is one
of acceptance, personal growth, and the power of honest human connections and relationships.
The detailed and creative lighting design by Brian J. Lilienthal paired nicely
with the scenic design by Neil Patel. Additionally, it was wonderfully connected
to the music and script, accenting and highlighting many moments throughout. Directed
by Sean Daniels and with music directed by Kevin David Thomas, this one-woman-show
features a variety of musical numbers, including up-tempos and ballads, each showcasing
Bertels’ impeccable vocal abilities.
It
didn’t take long for Bertels’ presence and fantastic, comedic story telling
ability to enthrall the audience. Over the next 90 minutes the audience was in
the palm of her hand, laughing at the witty one-liners, getting choked up
during the more emotional scenes and songs, and thoroughly enjoying every
minute of it. Her portrayal of Milton, his characteristics and voice, and her facial
expressions and reactions as Charissa to his blunt and often times amusing comments
were perfectly timed. With every song she displayed believable sincerity. Her powerful
and incredible vocal range was highlighted in each song making it difficult to
choose a favorite number. “What a View”, early in the show, was performed with
genuine excitement and thrill. Just as “My 80-Year-Old Boyfriend” and “Together
With You” were lighthearted and fun, “The Love Left Behind” and “Our Time” were
tenderly moving and tear-jerking.
Within
seconds of singing her final note in “What Counts” the audience leapt to their
feet with robust applause and cheers giving Bertels a long-lasting standing
ovation that was entirely well deserved. This touching and humorous musical is
bound to not only tug at your heartstrings, but make you laugh and send you out
of the theatre smiling. This new musical is a must see this May and Charissa
Bertels’ performance is not to be missed! ©
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| Charissa Bertels in "My 80-Year-Old Boyfriend". Photo by Meghan Moore. |
Running
around 90 minutes with no intermission, “My 80-Year-Old Boyfriend” plays at
Merrimack Repertory Theatre, located at 50 East Merrimack Street Lowell, MA,
with performances Wednesday through Sunday until May 21st,
2017. Tickets range from $70-$26 with
discounts available for groups, students, seniors, Lowell residents, and
military service members. To purchase tickets or find more information visit www.mrt.org or call
978-654-4678.
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