Theatre Review : Sweet Charity
Kathryn is out with another theatre review for Better Than Broadway. This time, she critiques “Sweet Charity“, part of the Dallas Summer Musicals.
What is the difference between professional theatre and community theatre?
The appearance and size of the venue, the price of the ticket, how you park your car, and of course maybe an occasional semi-famous actor or two.
I had the privilege of attending the Thursday afternoon matinee of “Sweet Charity” at the Dallas Summer Musicals. The construction around the fair grounds is just terrible; a real deterrent for entertainment; but a boon for the valet parkers; it was about the only way to get into a parking lot. Hope this is corrected before the State Fair opens, but does Dallas really work that fast? Some of it was not the city’s fault; what is it with some people thinking they can drive the wrong way on a one way street, go through red lights, and pull in front of others who are waiting patiently all because they have tickets to the theatre. Dallas is reeking with “me first” attitude these days. So, sad they were going to see a play about a kind, niave, giving young woman; art did not reflect life today.
Enough with the environment and to the real story; the play. This play is one of the standards, familiar and comfortable like old shoes. But with all great musicals the story is as relevant today as it was in 1966. Dallas’ own Paige Davis is good casting as Charity Hope Valentine; she is funny, vibrant and adolescent for a woman of the world. We fall in love with her hope, her dreams and we want her to get her desires; but as in life reality isn’t always so pretty. Ms. Davis’ voice is polished and powerful for the belting songs, and her dance skills are adequate. Guy Adkins portrayal of Oscar Lindquist is physically hysterical; he moves and flops like the best comics; but please work on the singing. Not bad; but not good. The supporting cast is a great ensemble; especially Bridget Berger (Nickie) and Kisha Howard (Helene) as Charity’s co-workers and “friends”.
Hands down the best and most admirable part of the show is the choreography. The dancing at “Club Pompeii” was just out of this world original and stunning. Thanks Mr. Cilento for you choreography. The brass band dance number was also well timed and very enjoyable. The music didn’t really deviate from the original score, but that is nice, sometimes it is nice to know all the songs before you go; and one anticipates the smiles and memories.Overall it was a nice day at the theatre; a great walk down memory lane and you leave the parking lot humming and not feeling as bad as the storyline might leave you. Because we know “Sweet Charity” never gives up and it just keeps on coming back, just like its main character. Thanks for a job well done, and a really good show.
Kathryn Kay Wisdom
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