Review: THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES at The Players Centre For The Performing Arts

Roger Bean's Off-Broadway musical MARVELOUS WONDERETTES is a must see at The Players Centre for the Performing Arts. This lighthearted comedy has all the fun stuff musical comedies are about. Don't expect a tight script with dialogue that will change the world. This show is a frolic down musical memory lane. You will enjoy the performers, songs and choreography that are splendidly playful and upbeat. The cleverly chosen song list guides you through the lives of the ladies performing in the show.

The musical opens in 1958 at Springfield High School's prom. Four nervous young ladies take the stage to provide the entertainment for this special evening. The interaction with each other and their classmates and teachers siting in the audience draws you in on the action. As if you are a part of the prom, you even get to vote for Prom Queen, and believe me; the girls are working it, vying for your vote.

When you hear any rendition of "Mr. Sandman", you might be tempted to drift off into a dreamlike state. In theatre we like to grab our audience's attention early on, so you wouldn't expect this to be the opening number. But hold on. When the "bum-bum-bum-bum-bum-bum-bum-bum", part of that number starts, you're sold. There is no sleeping through this. Let the antics begin.

Expressions of teen angst are fun to watch as two of the girls; boyfriend-stealer, Cindy Lou, played by Jessie Tasetano and animated best friend Betty Jean (Debbi White), argue with each other, mostly over boys, throughout the first act, while trying to keep it together for their show. Missy, (Alyssa Goudy), and Suzy, (Alana Opie), join Cindy Lou and Betty Jean in this romp through their song list with some baggage of their own. The cast entertains us through awesome singing and a well written comedy adventure right up the the end of the first act.

Rejoining the show after intermission, it is now ten years later and the ladies are performing at their 10-year reunion. We note a bit more maturity in the ladies. Songs with a lot more of an empowering nature pop up. Is someone pregnant? Has someone been cheating? Look out Springfield High Chipmunks - the girls are back!

Ms. Tasetano finds her place in the spotlight in, "Son of a Preacher Man." Ms. White also especially shines in, "It's My Party (And I'll Cry If I Want To)." Alyssa Goudy is adorable in her exuberant crush on her teacher Mr. Lee. Alana Opie sweetly brings her character Suzy to life and delivers a heartfelt mash-up of "Respect" and "Rescue Me".

Between some seriously good singing of 50's and 60's Hit Parade numbers such as, "Lollipop", "You Don't Own Me", "Son of a Preacher Man", and "Respect", is purposeful direction and classic 60's choreography by Helen Holliday. Ms. Holliday inspires her performers to stretch their wings, (and their gestures), to soar through songs that show off their personalities as well as their vocal abilities. Costume Designer, Tim Beltley, nailed the crinoline dresses, go-go boots and matching shoes. As an ensemble the actress's comedic sense of timing is spot on and the whole show comes together offering an engaging and amusing theatrical experience. RSVP to prom night and a class reunion at Springfield High. Go Chipmunks!

The MARVELOUS WONDERETTES runs through July 23, 2017. For more information on this production and other upcoming shows visit, www.theplayers.org.

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