Review: Attending A MARVELOUS PARTY at Winter Park Playhouse

The Winter Park Playhouse brings to life the musings and music of English playwright, composer, master-of-all-things theater Noël Coward. As a playwright, many of Coward's works still make their way into modern theater repertoire including BLITHE SPIRIT, PRIVATE LIVES and many more. A MARVELOUS PARTY is a light show that strings together songs and anecdotes written by Coward. Though slightly high-brow, I like to think of his work as observational satire and a peek into the life of a successful theater genius.

Noël Coward found success at a fairly young age working as a child actor. It wasn't until the 1920s when Coward began to make his mark as a playwright. As life happens, Coward writes witty commentary and subtle innuendo during a time much different than modern days of free speech and love. During World War II, Coward worked for the British government and continued to write and perform for troops. A MARVELOUS PARTY is peppered with Coward's commentary on visiting soldiers in hospitals. Laura Hodos sings a brilliant version of "London Pride" that would surely rouse any troops. I can only imagine what Coward would write about today's popular culture and political climate.

Though there are no songs that jump out as instantly recognizable, the stylings and toe tapping rhythms are familiar. As a versatile master of performing, Coward laid the foundation for modern-day theater. A MARVELOUS PARTY shows the gamut of Coward's writing. Pieces like "Mrs. Worthington" show Coward's humor and his thoughts on show business. "Has Anybody Seen Our Ship?" shows his witty punny side and standard solos like "Matelot" and "Mad About the Boy" show his serious side.

At this marvelous party, Roy Alan, Larry Alexander, and Laura Hodos sing, dance and act their way through Coward's life. They are a strong trio whose voices complement each other well. I'd recognize Roy Alan's choreography anywhere and he does well to fit the mood of each piece. Larry Alexander's voice is rich, while his humor fits the savoir faire of the party theme especially his solos "I've Been to a Marvelous Party" and "There are Bad Times just around the Corner." I loved the solo/duet between Larry and Laura "Someday I'll Find You" and "I'll follow my Secret Heart."

The first act ends with "The Coconut Girl," in what should be called the Laura Hodos show within a show. This is a 10+ minute piece where Hodos explains an entire show through song and dance with as much energy as the entire party began. She is truly unstoppable.

Directed by Steven Flaa, A MARVELOUS PARTY! A Noël Coward Celebration runs at the Winter Park Playhouse now through November 20th and December 1 - 11th. For tickets and more information visit www.winterparkplayhouse.org.

A special congratulations to the Winter Park Playhouse, who received a grant to expand their musical theater outreach program. Already reaching 50,000 students throughout the four counties around Orlando, the Winter Park Playhouse can now bring musical theater programs to senior citizens and assisted living facilities.

Photo Credit: Taylor Glore

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