STAGE REVIEW KSU cast works hard at 'Working'

Each of the actors portrays a variety of characters.
By GARRY L. CLARK
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
CHAMPION -- A large cast undertook the production of the musical "Working" on Thursday night at Kent State University Trumbull Campus.
The piece based on the book by Studs Terkel resounds with a true picture of the American worker from all walks of life, from migrant farm worker to corporate executive.
All have one thing in common: They're just trying to make a living.
The musical is filled with poignant and wistful songs and vignettes as well as some more rousing ones, but the mood of the piece tends to be somewhat somber in that most of the characters portrayed are not fulfilled in their vocation. This is most evident in the closing song of the first act, "If I Could've Been."
The characters run the gamut of jobs, calling upon cast members to portray several characters each throughout the evening, with pleasing, yet thought-provoking results.
Wistfulness reverberates from the housewife who feels condemned by others for her choice as well as the fourth-generation cleaning woman who is determined that her daughter will never scrub floors.
A strong work ethic is vividly portrayed by all, especially the ironworker, millworker, truckers and waitress. Of exceptional note was the part of the firefighter.
A bit of comic relief was excellently provided by the character of Charlie, the ex-copy boy who is a definite throwback to the hippie era.
Cast
Making up the cast of this fine endeavor directed by Daniel-Raymond Nadon are Chaze Baugh, Kore Bitner, Jenny Blazek, Jim Brantingham, Mary Ellen Cleary, John Falgiani, Beverly Hall, Mary Harvey, Todd Horrell, Tom Horrell, Eileen R. Janis, Zaikeim Jones, Tara Koroni, David MonteCalvo, Susan MonteCalvo, Jenilee O'Grady, David Schneider, Lois Schneider, Shannon Smith and Lindel Trimble.
Though most of the actors were in fine voice for this production, some were somewhat difficult to hear at times.
Scenic design by Michelle Harvey was very well-wrought, and lighting design by Leslie Brown was effective.
"Working" is not so much a "feel-good" musical as it is an honest look at what we do and why we do it.
And it also reminds us that it's not always about a paycheck.