BWW Reviews: Flashy and Fun VICTOR/VICTORIA Closes Stages St. Louis' 25th Season

What is it about movie adaptations and Broadway? They're constantly adapting motion pictures for the stage, and yet, the majority are expensive flops and failures. Is it the fickle nature of the "Great White Way", or simply cynical critics and theatre patrons who are jaded by these repeat offenders? Well, their loss is our gain, and the funny, romantic, utterly charming and delightful production of Victor/Victoria by Stages St. Louis is certainly proof enough that something is amiss in their estimations. This closer for Stages season is well worth you time and attention, and proves once again that some productions just work better in other venues.

When Victoria Grant's Paris gig suddenly ends, she's taken in by Toddy who comes up with a spectacular plan to get her working again. In disguise as a Polish Count named Victor, Victoria winds up becoming a female impersonator of sorts, and since there's no reason to suspect otherwise, she realizes a great deal of success. But, she also draws the suspicious eye of King Marchan, who finds himself falling for him/her, and since he know he's not gay, he begins to question her true sexual identity. It's all wrapped up like a tune-filled (music by Henry Mancini, lyrics by Leslie Briscusse, with a book by original director Blake Edwards, and additional music by Frank Wildhorn) souffle that's light and delicious and completely engaging and enjoyable.

Janna Cardia does splendid work as Victoria, hitting the high notes that distinguish her character's impersonation with grace and ease, and she handles the comedic elements with equal aplomb. David Schmittou is having a blast as Toddy, tossing off witty lines with impeccable style and timing. Gary Lynch makes a good impression as tough guy, King Marchan, and Steve Judkins also stands out as his bodyguard, who has some secrets of his own. Melinda Cowan also amuses as Norma.

A strong supporting cast includes: Whit Reichert (Cassell), James Beaman (Labisse), Leigh Wakeford (Richard), as well as Taylor Peitz, Zoe Vonder Haar, Steve and Ellen Isom, John Flack, and Sean Patrick Quinn.

Director Michael Hamilton does his usually fine job guiding the actors through their paces, and this time the effort is especially precise to enhance the comedy. He's aided greatly by the energetic work of the dancers under the direction of choreographer Dana Lewis. The music direction of Lisa Campbell Albert meshes wonderfully with Stuart Elmores orchestral realizations, and Lou Bird's costumes capture the outlandish nature of the musical numbers and characters, while remaining properly natty for the gangster element. Mark Halpin's scenic design is lavish when it needs to be, and nicely complemented by Matthew McCarthy's lighting scheme.

As a closer to their 25^th anniversary season, Victor/Victoria is a real pip! It's sure to please audiences with its combination of a superbly catchy score and outlandishly humorous situations. This production continues through October 9, 2011 at the Robert G. Reim Auditorium.

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