Talented cast enlivens ‘The Drowsy Chaperone’

By Stephanie Ottey

entertainment@vindy.com

lisbon

The productions of the Stage Left Players don’t always hit the radar in Youngstown, but that may be changing. The latest show, “The Drowsy Chaperone,” is fun, skillfully produced and attention- grabbing.

A first draft of “The Drowsy Chaperone” was written by Bob Martin and Don McKellar in 1997, and in May of 2006 it opened on Broadway. The show was nominated for and won a slew of Tony Awards that year, despite lukewarm reviews.

The lively musical comedy begins when the lights go out and the audience first hear the voices of a character that will only be known as “Man in the Chair.”

Man is a theater snob longing for the days of Cole Porter and Gershwin classics. He invites the audience into his home and introduces us to his favorite show of the 1920s, “The Drowsy Chaperone.”

As Man listens and reminisces, the cast of “Drowsy” comes to life in his living room so we can see the show playing along to his record.

Kandy Cleland and her company make a very entertaining show that will transport audiences and put a smile on any face. With inside jokes designed for theatergoers, upbeat music and a fast pace, “The Drowsy Chaperone” is completely enjoyable.

The cast is one of the most well-rounded groups of actors to appear in a musical this year. Talents are showcased across the board, and no weak links appear.

Bill Finley plays the Man in the Chair with a half-hearted warmth that emphasizes his character’s solitary nature while maintaining likability. His comedic timing is spot-on, birthing many unexpected laugh-out-loud moments.

Sandy Huston is a charming Mrs. Tottendale and Nathan Kuhns is her equally loveable man-servant “Underling.” Allison Dolphin and Cody DeRamo yuck it up nicely as the undercover gangsters, and Nicole Slaven is a fitting ingenue as Janet Van De Graaff.

Patti L’Italien plays the Drowsy Chaperone with a coolness that works, and Caroline Bennett is an adorably dense Kitty. Other cast members include Dave Wack, Kari Lankford, Bailey Bennett, Hannah Bosel, Logan Moff, Courtney Stewart and Mike Hill.

It’s impossible to avert your eyes from Jacob Ward as the confident Aldolfo. His performance is a hysterical caricature of a “Latin lover” that leaves viewers in stitches.

Early on, Reed Worth and Tyler Stouffer demand attention as Robert and George. These gentlemen are both clear triple-threats; proving to have vocal talent, comedic smarts, and a knack for tap-dancing.

They make “Cold Feets” the best musical number on stage this season.

Music Director Jodine Pilmer promotes good diction and use of all musical dynamics in this production, making the musical numbers written by Lisa Lambert and Greg Morrison interesting and clear.

The set designed by Alison Cleland, the lights by John Diddle and the sound by Will Flannigan all contribute to the success of the production.

What stands out about this production, and of the Stage Left Players in general, is the feeling of warmth and hospitality resonating throughout.