Hapgood Theatre Presents SIDE BY SIDE BY SONDHEIM, 1/28-2/6

An impressive sampling of lyricist/composer Stephen Sondheim's music took center stage in Hapgood Theatre's delightfully updated version of "Side by Side by Sondheim" last weekend in Antioch.

The musical tribute opened Jan. 21 for a three-weekend run at the Nick Rodriguez Community Center theater under the able direction of Jeremy Messmer, who also helmed last year's highly successful run of "Forever Plaid."

Originally written and performed in 1976 to introduce a British audience to the American composer's music, "Side by Side by Sondheim" is updated here to expose East County audiences to the sophistication, wit and genius of his work.

Director Messmer transforms the usual cabaret-style revue to a livelier, more full affair here in a welcome nod to Sondheim's detail-oriented material. The result allows for a greater appreciation of the material, much of which generally requires more context to be fully understood and enjoyed. Instead of singers sitting on stools simply sampling the songs one after the other, the actor/singers make the songs come alive with some fun props, colorful costume additions and simple set pieces.

The biggest change here, though, is Messmer's compelling transformation of the narrator, usually a staid character who dryly introduces the songs. Here the narrator is given his own space -- a detailed library filled with authentic Sondheim memorabilia -- to one side of the stage, propelling him to a greater role.

Erez Shek of Pleasanton is a hoot as the bubbly narrator obsessed with the masterful lyricist/composer. He dons a comedy mask, stands on a chair, throws confetti in the air as he begins his tale of the celebrated Sondheim, joyfully introducing the songs, doling out a little history and even breaking out in song himself. It is the narrator who sets the lighthearted tone here, warning us that there is very little plot in what is to come, and that its main goal is to celebrate the genius of Sondheim.

The songs here are all tied together by a common theme -- marriage is a favorite one -- or are from the same musical.

Theatergoers are treated to a dazzling array of some of Sondheim's best-known songs from landmark shows that revolutionized the musical theater, such as "Company," "Follies," "A Little Night Music," "A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum" and "Anyone Can Whistle," to classics written with Leonard Bernstein, Jule Styne and Richard Rodgers, such as "West Side Story" and "Gypsy." Also included is the lesser-known "I Remember" from the short-lived television musical "Evening Primrose."

The history lesson and the comedy are wonderful touches, but of course it's the music that is king here, and with a dynamic trio at the forefront backed by talented pianist Ken Brill, this revue really sings. The actor/singers must play numerous roles here and they do so with aplomb, all while captivating the audience with their vocal prowess.

Novato's Kelly Ground and Oakland's Juliet Heller are the two fabulous female leads, both with impressive credentials. Ground, a mezzo-soprano, originated the role of Fontine in the first national tour of "Les Miserables" with San Francisco's Curran theater, and the Equity Association actor/singer shows in this revue just why she's earned so many accolades. Her voice is superb, with "Send in the Clowns" (from "A Little Night Music") especially heartfelt.

Also delivering a top-notch performance was soprano Heller, who zipped flawlessly through the lyric-laden "Not Getting Married Today," and delighted audiences with "Broadway Baby" and "Losing My Mind." The two songstresses practically brought down the house with the blockbuster number "You Gotta Get a Gimmick" from "Gypsy." This song, with music by Jule Styne, is a tribute to the "good old days" of burlesque and features hilarious outrageous costumes.

Rounding out the cast is Stewart Lyle who plays the love interest for both the women, and shines in a range of pieces, including the vaudeville "Buddy's Blues," the simple but sweet "Anyone Can Whistle" and the touching "Could I Leave You," about a man contemplating his loveless marriage,

The tribute ends with the narrator reiterating his respect for the celebrated Sondheim and the ensemble pumping up the audience with its delightful rendition of "Side by Side" from the musical "Company."

With Messmer's masterful direction and a solid cast of terrific singers, not to mention a bevy of witty, insightful and simply fun music, Hapgood Theatre has scored once again. There's something here for everyone to enjoy.

WHAT: "Side by Side by Sondheim"
WHEN: 8 p.m. Jan. 28, 29, Feb. 4, 5; 2 p.m. Jan. 30 and Feb. 6
WHERE: Nick Rodriguez Community Center theater, 213 F St., Antioch
INFO: 925-219-8545 or www.hapgoodtheatre.org
COST: $15 students and seniors; $25 general
http://www.insidebayarea.com/news/ci_17206905

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