THE PLAY: A satirical tribute to 5 major composers of musicals: Rogers & Hammerstein, Kander & Ebb, Sondheim, Herman and Webber.

 

THE PRODUCTION: If you’re a theatre geek (and know those names above), you’ll find this show an endless source of inside comic references. The songs are written in the style of each composer and almost every lyric has a clever allusion to a famous musical. The quartet on stage carries it off with aplomb. They’re more about vocal strength than comic skill, but they still manage to provide plenty of humorous moments (Derrick Jacques was a standout on both counts).  Credit for much of the merriment goes to the skilled direction of Tom Width. Musical Director Paul Deiss provides solid accompaniment at the on-stage piano. Width’s set features fun-shaped frames with stretchy panels that sometimes get projections.  Maura Lynch Cravey’s costumes are neutral black with color pops and simple props. Joe Doran’s lighting adds colorful variety, but the actors sometimes ended up in the low-lit areas (it may be slow cues, not the design). Running time: 1:45

 

THE POINT: Theatre insiders will enjoy this hilarious send-up that features an able cast and countless comic references. Others should enjoy the general antics.

 

(4 / 5)

 

At Swift Creek Mill Theatre thru 8/19