Easily on of my favorite films of 2010 was “Black Swan” all the controversial content aside what most intrigued me was the level of commitment and dedication of the dancers involved. These young women ate, drank, slept, and lived ballet. It completely dominated each and every facet of their young lives, they thought of little else. But the result of this hard work was without a doubt the most beautiful and striking dancing.
Watching them on stage it appeared effortless. I was as if they were doing something as simple as breathing. All the greats make it look easy. These thoughts floated around in my head as I watched the Premiere Ballet Company’s outstanding production of Bolero, a powerful story of love, hate, jealousy, and death. The story, which centers on a small town in Barcelona opens in the town square with a powerful spiral dance as the peasants gather to sell their wares. The main characters: The Bolero, his rival The Matador, and the object of their affection the most beautiful and stunning Gypsy. All amazingly performed by Misha Izotova, Levi Ballejos, and the perfect Melian Izotova respectfully.
The crowd, which filled more than a third of PCC’s Hoag Theater, was excited and thrilled to be attending this show highlighting the combined efforts of long standing Grupo Folklorico de Pueblo, and the amazing new addition to our town Premiere Ballet. Created and managed by the aforementioned Izotovas. Defiantly the type of group Pueblo needs.
As a theater performer my whole life at times I tend to be a traditionalist. Although I understand the need and desire to include modern music into traditional styles at times for me it can distract from and break the fantasy of being whisked into the past. The opening rap number, and the Gnomes although cute and very charming did just that. Those points aside the production was one of the best and most amazing I have seen in a very long time, a stunning and beautiful experience.
Of Shakespeare it is often said although the language was flowery that he wrote for the common man. Yet sadly people are still intimidated by his work. We are at times even more by Ballet. The beauty of this production is that it is very easy for anyone to follow. Pueblo needs something like this to bring more to the theater.
The story is the classic love triangle. The Bolero and The Gypsy find each other; enter The Matador with his power and charisma. The Gypsy is taken and leaves The Bolero for him. Angered The Bolero tries but fails to win her back. He then takes his jealousy and hate to the final level and buys a weapon from the peasants in town. What happens next is both sad and tragic. The emotion and power brought about in the dance is just overwhelming. The confrontation scene with the Bolero and the Matador is very strong. The scenes with the “hand of love” were beautiful and tender.
The entire production was superior in every way. Those cast members worth a special mention are Clara McClure as Jealousy, her moves were amazing. Of course both male leads were fantastic and powerful. A real standout played a duel role as a gypsy and Death wrapped in a greenish veil. Her dancing was soft smooth and graceful.
The most perfect vision on the entire stage was Melian Izotova. She has a beauty and elegance about her that demands both your eyes and attention. Watching her transports you, and her grace and skill is unsurpassed. Experiencing her dancing and movement was and absolute pleasure to behold. I have always loved the image of the ballerina on her toes to be one of the true definitions of beauty and feminism.
Please make a point to see this show. It is a wonderful production and will be greatly enjoyed by all. The show will continue at PCC Hoag Theater Saturday March 17th at 2pm and 7:30pm and Sunday March 18th at 2pm. Call 719-347-1747 for ticket information.
-John M. Valdez, Reviewer
PPAG
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Nunsense
“Somebody get me a donkey and a manger.” That is one of the countless hilarious lines from Dan Goggin’s 1985 musical Nunsense. Nunsense is the second longest running off-broadway musical in history. The Steel City Theatre Company’s production opened last night at Central High School. The large and excited crowd was quickly pulled into the show by the characters talking to, and interacting with them. This breaking of the fourth wall continued throughout the show. The audience, it turns out is attending a fund raiser for the Mount Saint Helen’s Catholic School.
We find out that sadly prior to the show the school’s cook, Sister Julia “Child of God” has killed all but 19 of the entire convent with tainted Vichyssoise soup. The remaining 19 were lucky enough to have been paying but being cheated at bingo, “If she had only called I-19.” The convent had the money to bury the 52 nuns. However after 48 of them had been put into the ground the Reverend Mother used some of the funds to buy a VCR. So until they can raise the money to bury the remaining four nuns they are being stored in the schools freezer.
The great set was part of the joke, the school’s 8th grade is doing a production of Grease and the nuns promised not to disturb the set. As the show opens the nuns teach the Mount Saint Helen’s cheer. The audience quickly got the hang of it and gladly played their part all night long. Although at certain times the lyrics were difficult to hear the songs were funny and at times tear jerking, and poignant. The biggest number and crowd favorite was the hilarious, Holier Than Thou. Understood and felt by the under-represented Catholics in attendance including this reviewer. The lights and sound were wonderful. A special nod goes out to the band that played at just the right volume to make the songs fun to hear. And a very special shout-out to the great drummer Taylor Wood, he was awesome.
All involved were great, Andrea Garrett held her own as the young and only Novice of the convent. Although she had the worst name of the bunch (according to the sisters) Sister Hubert played delightfully by Ella Diaz knocked them all over with the aforementioned Holier Than Thou and her “if I wait long enough I’ll be in charge” personality. There is nothing more exciting than a nun in converse all star high tops. Thus the street smart and tough Sister Robert Ann, played by the talented Michelle Segura. Her song I Just Want to Be a Star not only wowed the crowd but softened the heart of the stern Reverend Mother.
Marlo Angel-Hartman blew us all away with her spot on performance of the stony Reverend Mother. Her insistence on buying the VCR and then sticking to her decision despite the consequences has to be commended. She had the audience in stitches at times scared and sitting up straight in their chairs. You can always tell those who attended Catholic school. Marlo had many wipping tears from their eyes with laughter when Mother was under the influence of “RUSH” it is a sight to behold for sure.
The stand-out of the night was without a doubt the phenomenally talented, Izzy France who played the delightful Sister Amnesia, who lost her memory when a crucifix landed on her head. She plays the ditzy sister with a Lucille Ball, and Kathy Nijimy style that had the audience loving her and laughing all night long. Then suddenly she opened her mouth to sing. And the crowd was just amazed. Her voice soared throughout the theater. She was a wonder to behold. All involved should be proud of a show well done.
You can see and laugh for yourself four more times. SCTC will continue production Oct. 8, 9 (2:30) 15, and 16 (2:30), at 7:30 pm. Tickets can be bought at the door, online at www.sctcpueblo.com or by phone 719-258-8399. Come by you will not be disappointed.
-John M. Valdez, Reviewer
PPAG
We find out that sadly prior to the show the school’s cook, Sister Julia “Child of God” has killed all but 19 of the entire convent with tainted Vichyssoise soup. The remaining 19 were lucky enough to have been paying but being cheated at bingo, “If she had only called I-19.” The convent had the money to bury the 52 nuns. However after 48 of them had been put into the ground the Reverend Mother used some of the funds to buy a VCR. So until they can raise the money to bury the remaining four nuns they are being stored in the schools freezer.
The great set was part of the joke, the school’s 8th grade is doing a production of Grease and the nuns promised not to disturb the set. As the show opens the nuns teach the Mount Saint Helen’s cheer. The audience quickly got the hang of it and gladly played their part all night long. Although at certain times the lyrics were difficult to hear the songs were funny and at times tear jerking, and poignant. The biggest number and crowd favorite was the hilarious, Holier Than Thou. Understood and felt by the under-represented Catholics in attendance including this reviewer. The lights and sound were wonderful. A special nod goes out to the band that played at just the right volume to make the songs fun to hear. And a very special shout-out to the great drummer Taylor Wood, he was awesome.
All involved were great, Andrea Garrett held her own as the young and only Novice of the convent. Although she had the worst name of the bunch (according to the sisters) Sister Hubert played delightfully by Ella Diaz knocked them all over with the aforementioned Holier Than Thou and her “if I wait long enough I’ll be in charge” personality. There is nothing more exciting than a nun in converse all star high tops. Thus the street smart and tough Sister Robert Ann, played by the talented Michelle Segura. Her song I Just Want to Be a Star not only wowed the crowd but softened the heart of the stern Reverend Mother.
Marlo Angel-Hartman blew us all away with her spot on performance of the stony Reverend Mother. Her insistence on buying the VCR and then sticking to her decision despite the consequences has to be commended. She had the audience in stitches at times scared and sitting up straight in their chairs. You can always tell those who attended Catholic school. Marlo had many wipping tears from their eyes with laughter when Mother was under the influence of “RUSH” it is a sight to behold for sure.
The stand-out of the night was without a doubt the phenomenally talented, Izzy France who played the delightful Sister Amnesia, who lost her memory when a crucifix landed on her head. She plays the ditzy sister with a Lucille Ball, and Kathy Nijimy style that had the audience loving her and laughing all night long. Then suddenly she opened her mouth to sing. And the crowd was just amazed. Her voice soared throughout the theater. She was a wonder to behold. All involved should be proud of a show well done.
You can see and laugh for yourself four more times. SCTC will continue production Oct. 8, 9 (2:30) 15, and 16 (2:30), at 7:30 pm. Tickets can be bought at the door, online at www.sctcpueblo.com or by phone 719-258-8399. Come by you will not be disappointed.
-John M. Valdez, Reviewer
PPAG
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Houston Boychoir/Pueblo Children's Chorale
“Son don’t ever ask a man if he is from Texas. If he is, he will tell you.” My best friend who was born, bred, and buttered in Texas takes pride in that quote. We have all heard how Texas is a whole other country and culture. Last night the sparse but very enthusiastic crowd at Hoag Theater learned that first hand. The Pueblo Children’s Chorale hosted the renowned Houston Boychoir. This group of amazingly talented young boys has been touring the whole state. Pueblo was lucky to be a stop on that tour. The show opened with a performance from our own Children’s Chorale, for the first time under the direction of their new director Mr. Brook Mead.
Brook took the helm without a single misstep. He added his own unique twist with a jazzy rendition of “Blue Skies.” Along with some cool scatting from Gabriella DeSimone and surprise first timer Joseph Berrios who learned only moments before that he would be a soloist. It was great. Both the crowd and the choir were having a terrific time.
Then Director Carole Nelson, her crew, and the Houston Boychoir took the stage. From the opening note of “Ave Maria” the audience was spellbound. The voices of the choir filled the hall and the ears of all in attendance. They continued to wow the crowd with each passing song. The boys also took direction from the wonderfully talented Mr. Neeki Bey. As the boys took a moment to change clothes another member of the crew took control of the choir, the young Ryan Villaverde. The boys then gave the Pueblo crowd a taste of Texas tradition with a series of selections about Texas. In their colorful bandanas and cowboy hats they danced and sang their way through some very well known songs. Including Pecos Bill, Yellow Rose of Texas, and lovely rendition of Red River Valley.
In a full choir it is often difficult to pick out a few individual voices especially when they are as talented as this group. However the young Adrian Alhadidi had a calm quiet nature and vocal quality that made him stand out as a leader. The voices were all wonderful. And as long time Chorale Director Chrisitna Anderson pointed out it takes talent and hard work to hit certain notes so well. Young Keaton Brown was a perfect example his voice was simply amazing and spot on.
The night ended with both groups taking the stage. They performed a wonderful song from Africa called Syahamba. This song is from a collection of songs arranged and compiled by a group of musicians including Mr. Neeki Bey. Who not only conducted but also accompanied on drum. It was a perfect ending to a great night of music.
To sum it all up I will steal some comments from Mr. Brook Mead. He pointed out how universal music is. How no matter who you are or where you were born music can bring people together. Music can reach across the miles and culture. What other medium can take African tradition to Texas and bring it to Colorado? And have all involved understand and enjoy it. Overall it was an amazing night. To learn and enjoy more about these two talented groups please visit their websites. www.houstonboychoir.org and www.pueblochildrenschoral.org
John M. Valdez, reviewer
PPAG
Brook took the helm without a single misstep. He added his own unique twist with a jazzy rendition of “Blue Skies.” Along with some cool scatting from Gabriella DeSimone and surprise first timer Joseph Berrios who learned only moments before that he would be a soloist. It was great. Both the crowd and the choir were having a terrific time.
Then Director Carole Nelson, her crew, and the Houston Boychoir took the stage. From the opening note of “Ave Maria” the audience was spellbound. The voices of the choir filled the hall and the ears of all in attendance. They continued to wow the crowd with each passing song. The boys also took direction from the wonderfully talented Mr. Neeki Bey. As the boys took a moment to change clothes another member of the crew took control of the choir, the young Ryan Villaverde. The boys then gave the Pueblo crowd a taste of Texas tradition with a series of selections about Texas. In their colorful bandanas and cowboy hats they danced and sang their way through some very well known songs. Including Pecos Bill, Yellow Rose of Texas, and lovely rendition of Red River Valley.
In a full choir it is often difficult to pick out a few individual voices especially when they are as talented as this group. However the young Adrian Alhadidi had a calm quiet nature and vocal quality that made him stand out as a leader. The voices were all wonderful. And as long time Chorale Director Chrisitna Anderson pointed out it takes talent and hard work to hit certain notes so well. Young Keaton Brown was a perfect example his voice was simply amazing and spot on.
The night ended with both groups taking the stage. They performed a wonderful song from Africa called Syahamba. This song is from a collection of songs arranged and compiled by a group of musicians including Mr. Neeki Bey. Who not only conducted but also accompanied on drum. It was a perfect ending to a great night of music.
To sum it all up I will steal some comments from Mr. Brook Mead. He pointed out how universal music is. How no matter who you are or where you were born music can bring people together. Music can reach across the miles and culture. What other medium can take African tradition to Texas and bring it to Colorado? And have all involved understand and enjoy it. Overall it was an amazing night. To learn and enjoy more about these two talented groups please visit their websites. www.houstonboychoir.org and www.pueblochildrenschoral.org
John M. Valdez, reviewer
PPAG
Monday, May 16, 2011
Bel Canto Singers
Roman Catholics are often chided for the elaborate architecture of their Cathedrals. I have heard it said that the builders wanted to create what they thought heaven might look like. This was their inspiration. But no matter where you stand on this you can’t help but to be deeply moved by the breath taking beauty of Pueblo’s Sacred Heart Cathedral. The location just added to the grand performance of the Bel Canto Singers.
May 15th at 4pm the trio of groups surrounded the crowd and filled the Cathedral with lovely voices. The children then broke up into their respective groups and the show was under-way. The largest group Bel Canto Singers was the first to take the stage. The songs were wonderful and voices charming. At times the instruments drowned out the choir but that soon passed. One of the songs highlighted a group of youngsters who sang solos. They added much to the performance.
Second on stage was the newest and oldest in age. The group Bella Voce was made up of middle school singers under the direction of Susan Kinnischtzke. Although the songs were quite inspiring the voices of the males were a bit soft and difficult to hear. However the entire group wowed and dazzled the crowd with a Bob Dylan tune, Ring Them Bells and the popular Ben E. King song, Stand By Me. Both were awesome to hear.
Next on stage was the youngest and smallest group. The Bella Con Brio made up of kindergarten-second grade students stood up proud and tall. They were short two singers due to illness. However the brave and talented remaining two girls and one boy kept the show going. Their pleasant rendition of Chatter with Angels was the sweetest of the entire show.
The Bel Canto group then returned for their second set. Christine Reed directed both groups wonderfully. The entire show was an amazing afternoon of music. Please be on the look out for the next show of Bel Canto Singers. They are a very talented and outstanding group of youngsters. You can find out dates and locations at www.pueblopag.org. Huge congratulations go out to Ms. Reed and her extremely talented group. It was truly a pleasure to behold.
John M. Valdez, Reviewer
PPAG
May 15th at 4pm the trio of groups surrounded the crowd and filled the Cathedral with lovely voices. The children then broke up into their respective groups and the show was under-way. The largest group Bel Canto Singers was the first to take the stage. The songs were wonderful and voices charming. At times the instruments drowned out the choir but that soon passed. One of the songs highlighted a group of youngsters who sang solos. They added much to the performance.
Second on stage was the newest and oldest in age. The group Bella Voce was made up of middle school singers under the direction of Susan Kinnischtzke. Although the songs were quite inspiring the voices of the males were a bit soft and difficult to hear. However the entire group wowed and dazzled the crowd with a Bob Dylan tune, Ring Them Bells and the popular Ben E. King song, Stand By Me. Both were awesome to hear.
Next on stage was the youngest and smallest group. The Bella Con Brio made up of kindergarten-second grade students stood up proud and tall. They were short two singers due to illness. However the brave and talented remaining two girls and one boy kept the show going. Their pleasant rendition of Chatter with Angels was the sweetest of the entire show.
The Bel Canto group then returned for their second set. Christine Reed directed both groups wonderfully. The entire show was an amazing afternoon of music. Please be on the look out for the next show of Bel Canto Singers. They are a very talented and outstanding group of youngsters. You can find out dates and locations at www.pueblopag.org. Huge congratulations go out to Ms. Reed and her extremely talented group. It was truly a pleasure to behold.
John M. Valdez, Reviewer
PPAG
Pueblo Children's Chorale
One cold January day in 1996 five highly talented women in Pueblo sat down and talked about starting a singing group; a group that would work exclusively with young people of Pueblo. And so, as with all tasks started by women it was completed and became a huge success. The following year Mr. Kenneth Butcher joined as Music Director and the Pueblo Children’s Chorale was on its way to becoming the pinnacle of children’s choirs in Southern Colorado.
The group has sung for a variety of audiences across Colorado, including the Lt. Governor. In 2004 Miss America Ericka Dunlap sang with the group. In 2000 the Chorale traveled to our nation’s capital. Throughout the years the chorale has had a number of Music Directors. The current Dr. Jennifer Shadle Peters made the 15th Anniversary concert her farewell performance. She chose a perfect way to say good-bye.
Having attended chorale concerts over many years the show on May 7, 2011 at Hoag Hall was hands down one of the finest I have ever seen. Right from the start the audience that nearly filled the hall was on the edge of their seats. The opening songs Alleluia and Kyrie put the crowd in a wonderful soothing mood.
As the show moved along we were treated to three performances other than the chorale. First a lovely solo by the current Miss Pueblo Gina Rossi. A group of former Chorale members brought the crowd back in time with a great rendition of “My Girl.” However the crowd was completely enthralled with the absolutely stunning Audrey McCaw. Audrey will be studying at The Orange County School for the Performing Arts this fall. Her performance showed us all why she made the cut.
The audience was then introduced to the new Music Director. A Pueblo native and member of the terrific band, Martini Shot, and current music teacher at Centennial High School, Mr. Brook Mead. He jumped right in with an amazing version of the Irving Berlin classic, “Blue Skies”, this reviewer sees Mr. Mead taking the chorale to new places and new heights, so be ready.
The concert was brought to a close with a charming new song composed by the first Chorale Director Mr. Kenneth Butcher. The song entitled “Pueblo Children’s Chorale Celebration” got the crowd on its feet and cheering. It’s typical in critical reviews to also say something the performers could improve upon. For a while I was hard pressed to find it. Then I saw something. It may seem minor but as a performer myself I was deeply bothered. One of the young performers in the choir had a look and attitude of boredom and arrogance while singing in the large group. It really at times took away from the amazing performance.
Congrats go out to Executive Director Mrs. Christina Anderson and all involved for a top-notch performance. If you know a young singer who is looking to broaden their singing talent then please call, 719-320-0922. Sign them up to audition for this terrific group. You can also visit their web site at www.pueblochildrenschorale.org You can also see them for their last performance of the season along with the Houston Boys Choir on June 6, 2011.
John M. Valdez, Reviewer
PPAG
The group has sung for a variety of audiences across Colorado, including the Lt. Governor. In 2004 Miss America Ericka Dunlap sang with the group. In 2000 the Chorale traveled to our nation’s capital. Throughout the years the chorale has had a number of Music Directors. The current Dr. Jennifer Shadle Peters made the 15th Anniversary concert her farewell performance. She chose a perfect way to say good-bye.
Having attended chorale concerts over many years the show on May 7, 2011 at Hoag Hall was hands down one of the finest I have ever seen. Right from the start the audience that nearly filled the hall was on the edge of their seats. The opening songs Alleluia and Kyrie put the crowd in a wonderful soothing mood.
As the show moved along we were treated to three performances other than the chorale. First a lovely solo by the current Miss Pueblo Gina Rossi. A group of former Chorale members brought the crowd back in time with a great rendition of “My Girl.” However the crowd was completely enthralled with the absolutely stunning Audrey McCaw. Audrey will be studying at The Orange County School for the Performing Arts this fall. Her performance showed us all why she made the cut.
The audience was then introduced to the new Music Director. A Pueblo native and member of the terrific band, Martini Shot, and current music teacher at Centennial High School, Mr. Brook Mead. He jumped right in with an amazing version of the Irving Berlin classic, “Blue Skies”, this reviewer sees Mr. Mead taking the chorale to new places and new heights, so be ready.
The concert was brought to a close with a charming new song composed by the first Chorale Director Mr. Kenneth Butcher. The song entitled “Pueblo Children’s Chorale Celebration” got the crowd on its feet and cheering. It’s typical in critical reviews to also say something the performers could improve upon. For a while I was hard pressed to find it. Then I saw something. It may seem minor but as a performer myself I was deeply bothered. One of the young performers in the choir had a look and attitude of boredom and arrogance while singing in the large group. It really at times took away from the amazing performance.
Congrats go out to Executive Director Mrs. Christina Anderson and all involved for a top-notch performance. If you know a young singer who is looking to broaden their singing talent then please call, 719-320-0922. Sign them up to audition for this terrific group. You can also visit their web site at www.pueblochildrenschorale.org You can also see them for their last performance of the season along with the Houston Boys Choir on June 6, 2011.
John M. Valdez, Reviewer
PPAG
Friday, April 29, 2011
The Importance of Being Earnest
I had always wondered why my father disliked his middle name Earnest. I used to tell him that it was a good name. Oscar Wilde wrote an entire play dedicated to that name. It did not sway him. But like many of Wilde’s writings The Importance of Being Earnest, produced by Centennial High School Friday night is about more than what appears on the surface.
The players did justice to one of this reviewer’s favorite playwrights. The Importance of Being Earnest is a story riddled with many social misunderstandings. It is undoubtedly one of the finest satires of Victorian manners and customs ever written. As the play opens we meet the two main characters. Jack (Earnest) Worthing played by Antonio Faloona. And Agernon (Algie) Moncreiff played by Leny Samora. Both were terrific and captured the deviants with charm and grace. Just as one might imagine Mr. Wilde had in mind when he wrote the play.
We learn that they both enjoy living double lives. This is in order to be naughty men on the side yet still maintain their place in society. A society, that sadly Wilde was never a part of himself. But as with most plans they go awry when the men fall in love with two sweet and innocent young ladies.
“Ignorance is like a delicate exotic fruit. Touch it and the bloom is gone.” This great quote from the play seems to sum it up quickly. The characters only appear to be exciting and likeable when kept in ignorance, once revealed they tend to lose their charm. This show however is charming from start to finish. The moment the delightful Rasmus Hagn-Meincke as Lane steps on stage and steals a cucumber sandwich the good size crowd was entranced.
Although a few of the actors struggled to keep the dialogue crisp and clear. Overall it was smooth. My recommendation to the cast is to speak slower. Jennifer Smith was wonderful as the pleasant Gwendolyn Fairfax. Her costumes were the most stunning of the whole cast. Crossing center stage and speaking as if in a soliloquy when not necessary was however distracting at times. Anybody familiar with acting in this town will know the name Mattoon. The family has a long history of actors. The latest addition is the young Phoebe. She most definitely has the acting gene. Her performance as the witty and kept Cecily was one of the best performances of the night. She will be one to watch in the future.
As with any production there are always standouts. This play was no exception. The best part of the night was the outstanding and amazing performance of Tori Garduno as the grumpy and snooty Lady Bracknell. She captured the snobbiness of the character perfectly. One could see touches of Jane Austen’s Lady Catherine Deburg in her portrayal. She was amazing to watch. The only part of the night that needed work was the lighting and sound. At times the house lights were left on and it tended to take away from the show. A great job all around to the cast and crew at Centennial High School. The show will continue Saturday April 30, at 2 and 7pm at Centennial. Ticket cost if five dollars.
-John M. Valdez, Reviewer
PPAG
The players did justice to one of this reviewer’s favorite playwrights. The Importance of Being Earnest is a story riddled with many social misunderstandings. It is undoubtedly one of the finest satires of Victorian manners and customs ever written. As the play opens we meet the two main characters. Jack (Earnest) Worthing played by Antonio Faloona. And Agernon (Algie) Moncreiff played by Leny Samora. Both were terrific and captured the deviants with charm and grace. Just as one might imagine Mr. Wilde had in mind when he wrote the play.
We learn that they both enjoy living double lives. This is in order to be naughty men on the side yet still maintain their place in society. A society, that sadly Wilde was never a part of himself. But as with most plans they go awry when the men fall in love with two sweet and innocent young ladies.
“Ignorance is like a delicate exotic fruit. Touch it and the bloom is gone.” This great quote from the play seems to sum it up quickly. The characters only appear to be exciting and likeable when kept in ignorance, once revealed they tend to lose their charm. This show however is charming from start to finish. The moment the delightful Rasmus Hagn-Meincke as Lane steps on stage and steals a cucumber sandwich the good size crowd was entranced.
Although a few of the actors struggled to keep the dialogue crisp and clear. Overall it was smooth. My recommendation to the cast is to speak slower. Jennifer Smith was wonderful as the pleasant Gwendolyn Fairfax. Her costumes were the most stunning of the whole cast. Crossing center stage and speaking as if in a soliloquy when not necessary was however distracting at times. Anybody familiar with acting in this town will know the name Mattoon. The family has a long history of actors. The latest addition is the young Phoebe. She most definitely has the acting gene. Her performance as the witty and kept Cecily was one of the best performances of the night. She will be one to watch in the future.
As with any production there are always standouts. This play was no exception. The best part of the night was the outstanding and amazing performance of Tori Garduno as the grumpy and snooty Lady Bracknell. She captured the snobbiness of the character perfectly. One could see touches of Jane Austen’s Lady Catherine Deburg in her portrayal. She was amazing to watch. The only part of the night that needed work was the lighting and sound. At times the house lights were left on and it tended to take away from the show. A great job all around to the cast and crew at Centennial High School. The show will continue Saturday April 30, at 2 and 7pm at Centennial. Ticket cost if five dollars.
-John M. Valdez, Reviewer
PPAG
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Roman Conquest
“We do not have divorce for Italian nobility. We have murder.” That is a great line from the most recent production from the Impossible Players, the John Patrick comedy, Roman Conquest. The show opened to a small but happy Friday night crowd. As the show begins we discover that secret identities will play a large role in the story. A young American heiress comes to Rome with her best friend Sue played by Molly McGuire to see if she has the chops to make it as an artist. Frank short for Francesca acted by Kristin Stewart wants to be successful because of her work not her famous name.
The story unfolds and we discover that her attempt to hide out in a run down 7th floor studio apartment is not as easy as it sounds. First she discovers that the realtor delightfully brought to life by Impy veteran, Ken Thompson has also rented the room to another young artist. Rather than cause a scene and have to carry their bags down seven grueling flights of stairs Frank and Sue decide to share the studio with the aloof Georgio played by music producer turned first time actor David Browder.
The show is made more of a farce and rounded out by many other wonderful characters including a naked 85-year-old man we never see but only hear, a rich and suspicious noble couple and a quiet and unassuming carpenter. The laughs were many and the crowd seemed to enjoy themselves. At times the actors seemed to be a bit uncomfortable with their characters and struggling for direction. This could have been due to the convoluted and at times aimless script.
Overall the entire cast was charming and a joy to watch. James Asbury was sweet and lovable as the proud but humble carpenter. He made the crowd relate to and sympathize with him from the moment he stepped on stage. Impy veteran and versatile stage actor Marvin Hays had the crowd in stitches as the confused and innocent Tony. A man willing to risk it all to get to be an American citizen, even marry a woman he doesn’t know. Mark Duvall an Impossible Player from long ago came out of his secret government work to amaze us all as the arrogant Prince.
Pueblo should be excited that Kristin Stewart stepped out from behind the curtain to grace the Impy stage. She was an absolute delight to watch and this reviewer hopes to see more of her. The two shinning stars of the night were without a doubt the quick-witted Sue played by long time theater member but new Impy Molly McGuire. She was not only funny and wonderfully charming but also lovely to watch. Second was the always-amazing Lara Craddock as the beautiful and deceitful Princess. Her lines were the funniest of the entire show and her delivery was right on the mark.
The show is a delight and a joy to watch. Spending the evening with this bunch of secretive people will be well worth the cost of the ticket. The show will be presented Saturday March 12th at 7:30pm. Sunday March 13th at 2pm, and again at 7:30pm March 18, 19, 25, and 26th. Call the Impossible Players at 719-542-6969 or visit www.impossibleplayers.org for ticket information.
-John M. Valdez, Reviewer
PPAG
The story unfolds and we discover that her attempt to hide out in a run down 7th floor studio apartment is not as easy as it sounds. First she discovers that the realtor delightfully brought to life by Impy veteran, Ken Thompson has also rented the room to another young artist. Rather than cause a scene and have to carry their bags down seven grueling flights of stairs Frank and Sue decide to share the studio with the aloof Georgio played by music producer turned first time actor David Browder.
The show is made more of a farce and rounded out by many other wonderful characters including a naked 85-year-old man we never see but only hear, a rich and suspicious noble couple and a quiet and unassuming carpenter. The laughs were many and the crowd seemed to enjoy themselves. At times the actors seemed to be a bit uncomfortable with their characters and struggling for direction. This could have been due to the convoluted and at times aimless script.
Overall the entire cast was charming and a joy to watch. James Asbury was sweet and lovable as the proud but humble carpenter. He made the crowd relate to and sympathize with him from the moment he stepped on stage. Impy veteran and versatile stage actor Marvin Hays had the crowd in stitches as the confused and innocent Tony. A man willing to risk it all to get to be an American citizen, even marry a woman he doesn’t know. Mark Duvall an Impossible Player from long ago came out of his secret government work to amaze us all as the arrogant Prince.
Pueblo should be excited that Kristin Stewart stepped out from behind the curtain to grace the Impy stage. She was an absolute delight to watch and this reviewer hopes to see more of her. The two shinning stars of the night were without a doubt the quick-witted Sue played by long time theater member but new Impy Molly McGuire. She was not only funny and wonderfully charming but also lovely to watch. Second was the always-amazing Lara Craddock as the beautiful and deceitful Princess. Her lines were the funniest of the entire show and her delivery was right on the mark.
The show is a delight and a joy to watch. Spending the evening with this bunch of secretive people will be well worth the cost of the ticket. The show will be presented Saturday March 12th at 7:30pm. Sunday March 13th at 2pm, and again at 7:30pm March 18, 19, 25, and 26th. Call the Impossible Players at 719-542-6969 or visit www.impossibleplayers.org for ticket information.
-John M. Valdez, Reviewer
PPAG
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