Deborah Ann Zimmer's homage to 27 years of Tony-winning Broadway musicals, Kiss Me, Tony, is just plain fun. Starting with Kiss Me Kate and closing with The Producers, the selections make a virtual history of contemporary musicals.
She stages each number with just enough action to set the scene for the selection from the show. Musical Director Ann Savage, aided by April Haarz's vocal direction, brings panache to each song. Choreographer Dawn Marie Himlin adds to the evening's polished, theatrical style.
There are many highlights: Kris Bauer and Kevin Jones delight in their Guys and Dolls number. Susan Bell is blessed with good vocal range as well as acting talent in her selection from The King and I, with John Hernandez a very dramatic King. Kelli Harless and Romeo Pasquariello are very cute in Damned Yankees. Gene Klein proves a heavy-hitter with selections from Man of La Mancha and Phantom of the Opera -- two difficult numbers, which he masters.
Himlin's choreography of Cabaret is quite dramatic. She also gives power to the chorus line in Applause. And, speaking of Chorus Line, Susan Bell and the company excel there, too. Their selection from 42nd Street, led with style by Pasquariello, proves a show stopper. Liz Sabicer, Klein, and Chris Hastings are fine in the strong selection from Titanic. Tammie Pontsler does quite nicely in The Music Man, along with Hernandez.
All of this is possible only with the backup of Dylan Snodgrass on piano, David Farlow on guitar, Julie Schwaben on percussion, and Dan Townsend on bass and percussion. Farlow also announces each number. Scenic designer D'Armond's mirror-backed set works well, while Liz Sabicer works wonders with limited lighting, giving many playing areas and lacking only a follow-spot. Chris Jolene Henkle's definitive collection of costumes allow for a zillion quick changes.
For a nostalgic look at the last 27 years of Broadway shows, this production offers high-quality staging and singing. well as some delightful singing.
