CURTAINS

Vintage Theatre: 9/18 – 11/1

                     Andy Sievers

“Curtains” won three Tony Awards in 2007 including Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical (David Hyde Pierce), Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical (Debra Monk) and Outstanding Book of a Musical (Rupert Holmes and Peter Stone.)

The music and lyrics are by Kander and Ebb who brought us “Cabaret,” “Chicago” and “Kiss of the Spider Woman.”

     In Boston in 1959 there’s a new play called “Robbin’ Hood” that gives a western spin to the tale of that British hero who robbed the rich and gave to the poor. The hideously untalented female star of the show dies shortly after a health crisis backstage. In the wake of her death and the scathing reviews from the Boston papers, the co-producers join forces to try to save the show. Shortly thereafter Lt. Cioffi of the Boston police arrives and announces that the star’s death was murder and the whole cast and crew, are suspects.

     So that’s the set-up and you’re going to have to buy a ticket to get the rest of the story. No spoilers here!

     Besides the phenomenal work of director Bernie Cardell in the casting and pacing departments, one must applaud choreographer Kelly Von Oosbree and musical director Eric Weinstein. The costuming by Susan Rahmsdorff is topnotch as well. Sean Cochran did solid work on the set design, which in other productions has come off in a rather cheesy stylization.

     “What Kind of Man,” “The Woman’s Dead” and “Show People” are a few of the funny tuneful hits in the show.

     The voices are teriffic! The acting’s hilariously right on target.

     Andy Sievers is outstanding as the smitten detective, Lt. Frank Cioffi. Suzanne Connors Nepi is a knock-out as the never say die producer,
Carmen Bernstein. Todd Black is great as Christopher Belling, the effete British director. As the ill-fated leading lady, Jessica Chanshaw, Shahara Ray dazzles us in more ways than one. You’ll see what I mean! Dave Gordon and Angela Mendez stand out vocally in the sub-plot. 

For tickets call: 303-856-7830

Or go online at www.vintagetheatre.orgMarlowe's Musings