BWW Reviews: The Boy From Oz at Theatre Three

The Tony nominated musical The Boy From Oz brings many emotions to the surface. The story is about the life of Australian entertainer Peter Allen. His zest for life, dealing with deteriorating health, and the love he is surrounded by create for the audience a roller coaster of feelings. For the record, Martin Sherman and Nick Enright have certainly created a story of heart and perseverance.

Jeffrey Sanzel superbly directs this wonderful incarnation - running through November 1st at Theater Three in Port Jefferson - with a gifted cast headed up by the talented Steve McCoy portraying Peter. The tale, set to Peter Allen's music, takes us through Peter's life from when he was starting out as an entertainer, him "making it" playing Carnegie Hall, his dysfunctional family, all the way until his untimely death. His marriage to Liza Minelli, fantastically portrayed by Sari Feldman, is also discussed as is his quarreling with Liza's mother, Judy Garland, portrayed by Lori Beth Belkin.

Additionally, a highlight among the cast is Andrew Timmins who is an absolute firecracker as Young Peter. His tap dance sequences draw a rousing round of applause as does his performance of "When I Get My Name In Lights". Also, a special mention to Brett Chizever, splendidly portraying Peter's partner Greg, who gives a moving performance of "I Honestly Love You" in Act Two. And Long Island theatre vet Mary Ellin Kurtz is divine as Peter's devoted mother, Marion.

Not on stage but also a focus is the live orchestra accompanying the stellar cast. Excellently led by Musical Director Jack Kohl, the orchestra is comprised of Bob Dalpiaz, Joel Levy, Mike Kendrot, Jeff Lange, Gary Meyer, Charles Clausen, Peter Auricchio, Rex Enderlin, Mike Chiusano, Jim Carroll, and Don Larsen. They practically sit in the audience stage right.

The entire cast is truly top notch and it seems each of them is truly enjoying their time in this production.

And so, The Boy From Oz is a great way to kick off Theatre Three's incredible 45th season. This brilliant cast and emotional story will make for a thrilling night of theatre.

The Boy From Oz is presented by Theatre Three of Port Jefferson, Long Island, through November 1st. Music & Lyrics by Peter Allen (and others), Book by Martin Sherman & Nick Enright, Original Production by Ben Gannon & Robert Fox, Directed by Jeffrey Sanzel, Production Design by Randall Parsons, Costume Design by Ronald Green III, Lighting Design by Robert W. Henderson, Jr., Sound Design by Neil Creedon, Stage Management by Peter Casdia, Choreographed by Marquez Catherine Stewart, Musical Direction by Jack Kohl. For more information and to purchase tickets, please call (631)928-9100 or visit www.theatrethree.com.

Photo By Steve Ayle of Showbizshots.com. Steve McCoy as Peter Allen and Sari Feldman as Liza Minelli in Theatre Three's The Boy From Oz

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