BWW Reviews: EVER AFTER at Paper Mill Playhouse is a Wonderful Season Finale

"A life without love is no life at all."

-Ever After

Gather your group and see Paper Mill Playhouse's charming, clever and touching season finale, Ever After. It is on the Millburn stage now through June 21st. This World Premiere musical is based on the 1998 movie of the same name that starred Drew Barrymore and Angelica Huston. The popular film is a natural for musical staging. Paper Mill's production is so much more than a Cinderella story. It's a fresh, fun theatrical event with an all-star cast.

The creation of Ever After is truly inspired. The original book and lyrics is by Marcy Heisler and the engaging music is by Zina Goldrich. Kathleen Marshall's flawless direction and fascinating choreographies make the production shine bright. Mary Mitchell-Campbell is the Music Supervisor, David Gardos is the Music Director and Rick Sordelet is the Fight Director.

This adaptation of the classic fairytale tells the story of Danielle, a vibrant young woman who is forced into servitude after the death of her father. Danielle's stepmother Rodmilla is a self-centered woman who forces Danielle to do the cooking and cleaning while she tries to marry off one of her daughters, Marguerite to Prince Henry of France. But it is Danielle's life that takes a turn when she meets the charming prince. And as their two worlds collide, there is a series of unpredictable events.

The characters in Ever After are intriquing and very charismatic. Isabella Jolene Burke opens the show as a darling Young Danielle. Margo Seibert as Danielle conveys just the right combination of sensibility and hopefulness to her character. Christine Ebersole is completely captivating as the evil stepmother, Rodmilla, a role that she masters with humor and drama. Mara Davi is ideal in the part of the spoiled step-sister Marguerite, with her own touch of evil. Annie Funke does a wonderful portrayal the daughter, Jacqueline, clearly less favored by Rodmilla, but very kindhearted. Charles Shaughnessy as King Francis and Julie Halston as Queen Marie are perfect as the royal couple. James Snyder is excellent as the charming, yet conflicted Prince Henry. Andrew Keenan-Bolger is completely genuine as Danielle's friend, Gustave. Charl Brown is terrific as the trustworthy Captain Laurent. And Tony Sheldon's fine portrayal of Leonardo da Vinci makes him an illuminating force in the show. Ever After also features multi-talented ensemble that make the scenes exciting.

Paper Mill audiences will enjoy the elaborate moments in Ever After with events in the court and the elegant ball. The score is full of vibrant numbers and heartfelt songs beautifully performed. Memorable pieces include My Cousin's Cousin by Danielle and Henry, A Healthy Bit of Competition featuring much of the Company, Right Before My Eyes by Henry, Is There Anything Leonardo Can't Do? by Laurent and Courtiers and It's Done by Danielle and Rodmilla.

While the exceptional talent of the cast takes center stage, the creative team has done a remarkable job of providing the "Once upon a time..." setting with scenic design by Derek McLane, costume design by Jess Goldstein, lighting design by Peter Kaczorowski, sound design by Nevin Steinberg, hair and wig design by Leah Loukas and casting by Telsey + Company.

Ever After is a family-friendly musical that tops off Paper Mill's successful season. But, don't hesitate go to the show for date night. Adventure, pageantry and romance have never looked so good.

Ever After will be performed at Paper Mill Playhouse eight times a week, Wednesdays to Sundays through June 21st. Tickets are now on sale and range from $28 to $99. They may be purchased by calling (973) 376-4343 or by visiting the Paper Mill Playhouse Box Office at 22 Brookside Drive in Millburn. You can also purchase tickets online at www.PaperMill.org.

Photo Credit: Jerry Dalia

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