The Fantasticks, 4/26/07

Trinity Repertory Company, Providence RI
Seat: House Left, mid-way up

The Fantasticks ran off-Broadway for over 40 years, until the 9/11 aftermath closed the show in January, 2002. The question is: how? How can a show, written in the 1950s, run for so long? The reasons are two-fold: first, it's cheap to run. The show features a cast of 8, orchestra of 3, extremely simple set, and basic costumes. Secondly, the show is timeless. It's the simple story of boy falls in love with girl, boy and girl split up, boy and girl make up. The show has a great message of love, which cannot be dated. This combination is a successful one, obviously.

Going in, I had high hopes for this production - I'd never seen anything bad at Trinity, and this production received good reviews. In short, I was not let down! Upon entering the Chace Theatre, the audience is instantly transported to a fantasy world by the truly wonderful set design by the one and only Eugene Lee, which integrated elements from Rocky Point, the former Rhode Island landmark. As the overture begins, the audience is treated to a very fun magic show by Joe Wilson, Jr (El Gallo) and Nate Dendy (The Mute), which set the stage for a truly magical evening (literally: magic and illusion was used quite prominently throughout the show to great effect).

I have only two qualms with the production: the lighting design (at times) and the singing voice of Stephen Thorne. Overall, John Ambrosone's lighting design was fine; nothing spectacular. That said, there were times where faces were lost, once they left the raised platform used for the stage. This, however, is likely an issue with the actors losing the light as they strayed from the raised portion of the stage. There were a few points, though, where I felt the lighting could have gone farther, most notably during "Round and Round", Luisa's dream sequence. The weak link of the cast, unfortunately, was the singing voice of Stephen Thorne (Matt). While his acting was appropriate for the role, his voice left much to be desired in tone, strength, and, at times, pitch. He could carry a tune, and at times did very well with the harmonies (notably during "I Can See It"), but I certainly wish Trinity had cast more of a singer in the role.

In all, The Fantasticks was a highly enjoyable night at the theater, an evening I highly suggest to those able. The production runs through May 6th (recently extended!) at the Chace Theater, 201 Washington Street, Providence, RI.