BWW Reviews: The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis Closes Their Season with a Charming and Delightful Production of THE FANTASTICKS

If you're a fan of musical theatre, and you missed out on your chance to see The Fantasticks during its record setting run off-Broadway (it did play for over 40 years, after all), then you owe it to yourself to take in the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis's delightful production on the main stage at the Loretto-Hilton that's playing through April 11, 2010. The Rep's captivating presentation is a perfect finish to a strong and compelling season, offering audiences the opportunity to witness a lively cast injecting new life into this venerable classic by Tom Jones (book and lyrics) and Harvey Schmidt (music).

The story is an entrancing little allegory loosely based on "Les Romanesques" by Edmond Rostand, but with a knowing nod to Shakespeare as well. In this free adaptation, Bellomy and Hucklebee are neighboring fathers who would like nothing more than to have their respective son and daughter (Matt and Luisa) fall in love and marry. But knowing how rebellious kids are by nature, they decide to erect a wall between their two houses, concoct a feud between their families, and hire a scoundrel and his actor friends to abduct Luisa so that Matt can come off as a hero when he triumphantly rescues her. Naturally, this will ensure that the pair will become completely smitten with one another, since the sweetest fruit always seems to be forbidden. However, when certain truths are brought to light regarding the behind the scenes efforts of their parents, the relationship begins to sour.

Brian Sutherland is a lovable rogue as El Gallo, guiding the narrative, and the participants, through their paces. He also delivers a splendid rendition of the show's most familiar number, "Try to Remember", as he sets the stage for the story to come. He's aided in his tasks by Sara Bruner, who brings a magical allure to her role as the whimsical mute. Bruner's a mercurial presence on stage, whether viewing the actors while perched high above them, or actively participating in the action by moving props and furniture, or even making snow suddenly appear.

Scott Schafer and Dan Sharkey are simply terrific as Bellomy and Hucklebee. They nearly steal the show with their playful antics, and "Never Say No" and "Plant a Radish" are both given energetic workouts by the pair. Both benefit as well from the amusing choreography created for them by Martin Cespedes.

Stella Heath makes a winning impression as Luisa, and she's able to convey the youthful vigor of a sixteen year old who still fancies herself a princess. She's well matched with Cory Michael Smith as Matt, the older boy next door who only thinks he's more mature. Their voices provide a nice blend on songs like "Soon It's Gonna Rain" and "They Were You".

Joneal Joplin is a riot as Henry, the vainglorious actor El Gallo employs during the abduction of Luisa. John Woodson gives a comical performance as Henry's partner in crime, Mortimer.

Director Victoria Bussert keeps the tone light and the pace upbeat, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable time for all. Musical director and onstage pianist David Horstman does stellar work here, providing sparkling accompaniment along with Elizabeth Gerberding on harp. Gary English's scenic design keeps the set faithfully simplistic while allowing for a number of levels to break up the action visually. Peter Sargent's lighting adds drama and clarity to the action, and occasionally humor as well. The costumes by Dorothy Marshall Englis neatly delineate each character.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis closes their 2009 - 2010 season with a wonderfully entertaining, and thoroughly charming and engaging production of The Fantasticks.

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