Great Local Shows - Theatrical Reviews
Title |
The Producers |
Organization |
Sutter Street Theatre |
Date(s) of show |
August 10 - September 9, 2012 |
Reviewer |
Dick Frantzreb |
Review |
The Producers ran for 6
years on Broadway with 2,502 performances, so there’s no question it is
a good show: the plot is engaging, the music makes for good listening,
and the writing is witty. But this musical about two oddly matched
Broadway producers trying to create a show that is sure to flop succeeds
because of the extraordinary array of local talent it showcases. It is
wildly funny, with over-the-top, outrageous humor. And chief among the
on-stage lunatics is Kevin Caravalho as Max Bialystock, the jaded
producer: radiating energy, singing powerfully, and acting with creative
intensity every minute he’s on stage. And Caravalho is well paired with
Aaron Boyer as Leo Bloom, the timid accountant who becomes Max’s
partner, and who is convincing and delightful in this comic role. Then
there is Ryan Adame who has performed brilliantly in so many local
productions, and once again creates a memorable comic persona in Roger,
the director. And let’s not overlook Jacob Goodyear as Roger’s
preposterously flamboyant assistant, and Dennis Curry, as Franz, the
Hitler-o-phile, whose imposing presence, big voice, and credible German
accent make his improbable character believable. But it’s a pity to
single out individual cast members because I could see each person in
this show giving their all, and embracing with abandon their role (and
they all played many roles) in this theatrical mayhem. I have to add,
though, that one of Brady Tait’s many characters made me laugh harder
than I have in years – and I mean years.
Beyond the individual acting
talents, there is so much more that makes this offering of The
Producers so entertaining. Connie Mockenhaupt outdoes herself as
director and choreographer with wonderfully humorous and creative
touches and dance routines. Chris Schlagel plays the piano
accompaniment masterfully throughout, and no doubt is largely
responsible for the fact that the singing – including the ensemble
singing -- is so consistently good. And Eileen Beaver’s costuming is
nothing short of amazing for a production on this scale. She puts
together so many character-appropriate, quality costumes. And
Roger’s entrance in drag is stunning: I’ve seen it, and I can attest
that Roger does, indeed, look like the Chrysler Building – as he
laments.This
hilariously funny production is intense entertainment from beginning
to end. I consider it adult fare, so leave the little ones and early
teens at home. But come yourself. It is a manic, tour de force that
is likely to attract numerous Elly nominations and awards, and it is
not to be missed.
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