Review: New Line Theatre's Fantastic CELEBRATION

Though I'm extremely familiar with Tom Jones' (words) and Harvey Schmidt's (music) most popular work, THE FANTASTICKS, I had never seen their follow up, CELEBRATION. What I'd read while doing research was that it really fizzled once it was on Broadway. However, after seeing it I can understand why; it's a smaller scaled show that requires just the right venue to succeed. That's why I'm so glad New Line Theatre opened their 26th season with this fanciful and tune-filled musical. Through their superlative efforts we're able to see the premiere of a version that's been revised by Tom Jones. I'm not sure what was changed, but what we're privy to is a very engaging and entertaining production that will make you wonder why it isn't performed with more regularity. The score itself is gorgeous, and I cannot recommend this neglected gem highly enough.

There are aspects of the plot that make it seem more like a fable, but it actually addresses pertinent issues that we continue to struggle with as a culture, and a nation. At a more basic level, it follows an orphan who falls in love with an angel (of sorts). But, her desire to succeed in show business leads her to fall under the spell of a self-absorbed megalomaniac. There are definitely echoes of the current candidate, who shall not be named, that resonate in the characterization of William Rosebud Rich, a wealthy man full of narcissistic bluster who's completely clueless. And, at the same time, the musical has a through thread that follows the four seasons and the changes they bring.

Kent Coffel does a solid job as Potemkin, who narrates and guides the action, and who occasionally breaks the fourth wall to address the audience directly, often in humorous ways. Sean Michael is excellent as the Orphan, displaying a wonderful voice that fits the material especially well. Larissa White is a delicious treat as the scantily clad Angel, and she also shines vocally. Zachary Allen Farmer does impressive and hilarious work as William Rosebud Rich, delivering amusing lines and asides with disconcerting volume that only makes them that much more funny. The principal cast is supported by The Revelers, who give their all and include: Colin Dowd, Sarah Dowling, Christopher Lee, Todd Micali, Nellie Mitchell, Michelle Sauer, and Kimi Short.

Directors Scott Miller and Mike Dowdy-Windsor have crafted a marvelous staging that accentuates the intimacy of the show. Their staging and Michelle Sauer's choreography bring the action right into the audience at times, and that makes for a genuinely fun experience. Rob Lippert's multi-level scenic design is deceptively simple and unobtrusive, and that really works well because we're completely focused on the characters and not distracted by set pieces. Sarah Porter does a nice job costuming the various characters, and Scott L. Schoonover's masks for The Revelers are very interesting creations. Kenneth Zinkl's lighting is on point, and so is Sarah Nelson's music direction, which is splendid throughout. Nelson conducts and play piano with an exceptional group of musicians that includes: D. Mike Bauer (guitar), Sue Goldford (2nd keyboard), Clancy Newell (percussion), and Jake Stergos (bass).

With a truly memorable score and many amusing moments, one wonders why this musical isn't more well known and successful. That's why I urge you to check out New Line Theatre's wonderful production of CELEBRATION. It plays at The Marcelle Theater through October 22, 2016. Don't miss it!

Photo credit: Jill Ritter Lindberg

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