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REVIEW: Boasting a superb and jovial cast, Boston Lyric Opera’s Boston-based ‘La Cenerentola (Cinderella)’ conjures practical magic

Posted on November 16, 2023 by The Sleepless Critic

This Cinderella keeps it local and conjures a bit more practical magic.

Stage directed with charm and finesse by Dawn M. Simmons and infused with Gioachino Rossini’s lively and whimsical music, Boston Lyric Opera presented Jacopo Ferretti’s Italian libretto La Cenerentola (Cinderella) live and in person at Emerson Cutler Majestic Theatre in Boston, MA for one weekend only through Sunday, November 12. Click here for more information and for a closer look at Boston Lyric Opera’s new season.

Move over glass slipper and fairy godmother and hello fashionistas and Amazon drivers. Cinderella is getting the city treatment with a few contemporary twists, but keeping its sparkling delivery and timeless moral message from a modern penthouse apartment overlooking the city of Boston.

ANGELINA (CECELIA HALL) MAKES HER ENTRANCE TO THE ROYAL BALL IN BOSTON LYRIC OPERA’S PRODUCTION OF LA CENERENTOLA (CINDERELLA) Photo by Nile Scott Studios

The Emerson Cutler Majestic Theatre’s ornate theatrical setting is so fitting for Jenna McFarland Lord’s sophisticated and elaborate set design featuring two towering lit lamp posts. From a pristine, lightly furnished penthouse apartment to a starlit, fantasy masquerade garden party embellished with vines chasing the walls, a wrought iron staircase, and twinkling lights, Lord builds up the fanciful spirit of this modern fairy tale.

La Cenerentola, spoken in Italian with English subtitles, is a spin of the traditional fairytale Cinderella and centers around an imaginative woman who lives with the Baron and his two daughters and must cater to their every whim. When Don Ramiro shows up at the Baron’s doorstep, change just might be in the air.

DON MAGNIFICO, (BRANDON CEDEL, L.) IS THE WICKED STEPFATHER TO TISBE (ALEXIS PEART, C.) AND DANA LYNNE VARGA IN BOSTON LYRIC OPERA’S PRODUCTION OF LA CENERENTOLA (CINDERELLA) Photo by Nile Scott Studios

However, some things haven’t changed in soprano Dana Lynne Varga as Clorinda and mezzo soprano Alexis Peart as Tisbe, Cinderella’s self-absorbed, scornful, and gold digging wicked stepsisters who can barely see beyond their mirrors (or in this case, their phones and selfie rings). The duo possesses certain regality in their bookend statures, if it was not for their disdain for others. Feathers, diamond encrusted bowties, crushed velvet, lace, and floral embroidery is just a portion of Trevor Bowen’s glittering, extravagant and fanciful costume design. Cecelia Hall as Angelina seems to simply float in her idyllic emerald gown. Don Magnifico, otherwise known as The Baron depicted with scene stealing glee by bass baritone Brandon Cedel, shares his daughters’ conceitedness decked out in rings, an earring, and carefully coiffed hair. Cedel waltzes around the apartment in self congratulatory bliss unless something or someone ruffles his flawless feathers. Though Cedel’s Baron does have a threatening side, Cedel spends much more time as a humorous ham as he flirts and shows off fun loving comic charm.

ANGELINA (CECELIA HALL) DREAMS OF A NEW LIFE FAR FROM WHERE SHE LIVES IN BOSTON LYRIC OPERA’S PRODUCTION OF LA CENERENTOLA (CINDERELLA) Photo by Nile Scott Studios

In suspenders and doo rag cap, mezzo soprano Cecelia Hall gracefully portrays modest, tactful, and compassionate Angelina with agile vocals, shining especially in the production’s quieter moments. A sidelong glance, demure blush, and a barely concealed impish smile and gaiety escape her while she tends to her endless household duties, especially in the charismatic presence of tenor Levy Sekgapane as Don Ramiro. Sekgapone’s dazzling vocals and captivating rapport with Hall make for some of the production’s most delightful moments and Ferretti’s libretto wisely delves further into Ramiro’s persona than other Cinderella productions.

CLORINDA AND TISBE (DANA LYNNE VARGA, LEFT AND ALEXIS PEART, RIGHT) ARE CHARMED BY DANDINI (LEVI HERNANDEZ), WHILE DON RAMIRO (LEVY SEKGAPANE, R) LOOKS ON IN BOSTON LYRIC OPERA’S PRODUCTION OF LA CENERENTOLA

Hall also shares a sweet camaraderie with bass baritone James Demler through a good deed as humble and quick witted Amazon driver and part narrator Alidoro. Both Demler and Levi Hernandez as Dandini are immediately likable from the start. Demler’s gravitas and commanding vocals deliver some wondrous surprises while baritone Hernandez’s soaring vocals as Dandini show they are much more than meet the eye.

Gioanchino Rossini’s urgent rhythms, quick pacing, and playful, melodic dialogues enchant while the lightning speed of some of the libretto demonstrate the collective and extraordinary skill of this engaging cast. With a few more refreshing twists and turns than in Cinderella’s traditional tale, Boston Lyric Opera’s La Cenerentola (Cinderella) embarks on a humorous and jovial journey while emphasizing the power of love and grace in all circumstances.

REVIEW: Boston Lyric Opera’s delivers sleek and searing ‘Fellow Travelers’

Posted on November 29, 2019 by The Sleepless Critic

It is an affair that is anything but simple.

Buried in an era of high times, unyielding tradition, and a booming economy lay a secret struggle. From the first few notes of the lingering, lovely, and progressive score which is equal parts bright notes and mounting doom, Boston Lyric Opera’s (BLO) Fellow Travelers is a resplendent journey rooted in the booming 1950s, where two travelers meet on a park bench and their lives are forever changed.

Based on the novel of the same name by Thomas Mallon, Gregory Spears and Greg Pierce’s Fellow Travelers made its Boston debut in a limited, one weekend engagement which concluded with a matinee performance that paid tribute to the late Boston Conservatory President Richard Ortner on Sunday, November 17 at the beautiful Emerson Paramount Center. Click here for more information about the Boston Lyric Opera and future events.

Boston Lyric Opera Fellow Travelers Office Party Photo by Liza Voll

Michelle Trainor as Miss Lightfoot toasts the Christmas party. Also pictured is David McFerrin as Estonian Frank, Jesse Blumberg as Hawkins Fuller, Chelsea Basler as Mary Johnson, Brianna J. Robinson as Lucy, and Vincent Turregano as Tommy McIntyre Photo courtesy of Liza Voll/Boston Lyric Opera

Fellow Travelers is a fictional tale rooted in historical events during the Lavender Scare at the center of the nation’s capital. It frankly explores the rigid outlook on men and women struggling under the harsh light of government and society’s expectations and the desperate lengths they will go to keep up appearances while pursuing their own vision of success. This well paced production challenges love, faith, and humanity in an age of McCarthyism, communism, behind-the-scenes interrogations, misogyny, and American idealism.

Sara Brown’s symbolic and sweeping set, Liz Printz’s wigs and makeup, Trevor Bowen’s definitive costumes, and Mary Shabatrua’s opaque, emotionally-charged lighting combined to create a perfect vintage setting right out of Mad Men. From the elegant, shimmering gowns, perfectly coiffed wigs, pearls, and dapper fedoras to the vintage set that included classic typewriters and towering marble columns, Fellow Travelers successfully rewound the clock to the roaring hustle of 1950’s Washington DC. Vincent Turregano as wiseacre Tommy McIntyre winding a yo-yo was a nice touch.

Boston Lyric Opera Fellow Travelers Chelsea Basler as Mary Johnson and Michelle Trainor as Mrs. Lightfoot Photo by Liza Voll

Jesse Darden as Timothy McLaughlin, Chelsea Basler as Mary Johnson, and Michelle Trainor as Miss Lightfoot Photo courtesy of Liza Voll/Boston Lyric Opera

Greg Pierce’s libretto exacts the lingo, expressions, and the camaraderie of its time reflected in this compelling and brilliant cast. Fellow Travelers follows the immediate attraction between quick-witted and charismatic Hawkins Fuller, portrayed by a suave Jesse Blumberg and timid and naive Catholic intern Timothy Laughlin, depicted with virtuous charm by Jesse Darden. Baritone Blumberg and Tenor Darden have playful, impressive chemistry as Blumberg affectionately calls Darden “Skippy” and their scene about Bermuda is a significant highlight.

Exceptional soprano Chelsea Basler breathed the part of compassionate, kind, and well-meaning Mary. She reflects that sweet nature and performs vocal gymnastics in I Worry That’s All. It is fascinating to watch her interact with nosy office gossip Miss Lightfoot, portrayed with humor and gusto by Michelle Trainor. David McFerrin, Simon Dyer, and James Maddalena all seamlessly navigate through their multiple, dynamic and pivotal roles. With silvery vocals, Brianna J. Robinson is picture perfect as idealistic Lucy, longing for that 1950’s American Dream complete with family, yard, and picket fence. However, not all dreams are meant to be.

Boston Lyric Opera Jesse Blumberg as Hawkins Fuller and Brianne J. Robinson as Lucy Photo courtesy of Liza Voll

Jesse Blumberg as Hawkins Fuller and Brianna J. Robinson as Lucy Photo courtesy of Liza Voll/Boston Lyric Opera

Fellow Travelers, which followed a successful run of the classic Italian opera Pagliacci, is only part of what Boston Lyric Opera has in store this season. Click here for BLO’s complete season and follow them on Facebook for all their latest updates.

REVIEW: Cohasset Dramatic Club proves life is too short to miss the insightful musical, ‘If/Then’

Posted on March 24, 2017 by The Sleepless Critic

Mix in a dash of the Tony award-winning musical, Rent, a hint of HBO’s hit show, Sex and the City, and stir in the thought-provoking film, Sliding Doors, and what emerges is a real treat in Cohasset Dramatic Club’s musical drama, If/Then. Set in New York City and based on a book by Tom Kitt, If/Then is an unpredictable, immersive tale that explores destiny, love, happiness, and the complexity of navigating through life’s surprises.

Cohasset Dramatic Club is thrilled to debut “If/Then” through Saturday, March 25 Photo courtesy of Cohasset Dramatic Club

Cohasset Dramatic Club is thrilled to be the first in the US to present this stirring, humorous musical after its professional Broadway run and national tour. Directed by Lisa Pratt and technically directed by Mark Bono, If/Then continues at Cohasset Town Hall in Cohasset, Massachusetts through Saturday, March 25. Click here for more information and tickets.

Is the path to happiness completely random or is destiny derived from the right choices? Elizabeth Vaughn, portrayed masterfully by Ann McCoy, is a successful urban planner who decides to make a fresh start in New York City. Everyone seems to think they know what is best for her, which helps lead Elizabeth onto two, unexpected paths.

Featuring a vibrant cast with realistic conflicts and fleshed out characters, Ann McCoy as conflicted, soulful Elizabeth Vaughn is the heart of the show, a meaty role originated by Idina Menzel on Broadway. Dressed in a sharp black pants suit, McCoy is more than up to the challenge, portraying a woman who was once certain of life’s direction, but lately, her confidence has waned. McCoy impressively depicts Elizabeth’s cautiousness through a shift in her eyes and yet, also brings out the character’s lively impulsiveness. She heeds other people’s advice, but ultimately follows her heart. A soprano, Ann McCoy’s vocals dip and soar, hitting challenging notes with ease. This is especially evident in the numbers, You Learn to Live Without and Always Starting Over.

One of McCoy’s greatest strengths is the natural, unique chemistry she shares with each cast member. Elizabeth is single, but not lonely. Michelle Margulies portrays Kate’s incredibly charming and outspoken friend. Margulies as Kate is engaging, fun-loving, and a bit of a scene stealer. She is Elizabeth’s biggest fan and only has her best interests at heart. Perpetually optimistic, Margulies offers a soulful and comical rendition of the number, It’s a Sign, playfully engaging the crowd.

CDC If Then Ann McCoy and Michael Warner

Ann McCoy as Elizabeth and Michael Warner as Josh depict great chemistry in ‘If/Then’ Photo courtesy of Cohasset Dramatic Club

Ann McCoy and Michael Warner are local community talents known for various productions on the South Shore, shine in their roles. Michael Warner is compelling as caring, forthright, and unassuming army surgeon Josh, a man also clearly torn between two life choices. He delivers a touching rendition of the song, Hey Kid. Elizabeth and Josh’s chemistry is hopeful and passionate. They create great harmony together, especially during the song, Here I Go.

While Josh is practical, Ricky DeSisto is a natural as impulsive and endearing Lucas. With his earnest, idealistic nature and fair share of cynicism, one cannot help but root for him through life. Through lighthearted teasing and sweet glances, Elizabeth and Lucas have a warm, playful chemistry. Their song together, Some Other Me is moving. Rob Buckel-Gillis portrays hopeful, supportive David, a surgeon. He is hopeful, likable, and optimistic. Lucas and David share a tender duet, The Best Worst Mistake You Ever Made.

CDC If Then Michelle Margulies Ann McCoy and Ricky DeSisto

Michelle Marguies as Kate, Ann McCoy as Elizabeth and Ricky DeSisto as Lucas in ‘If/Then’ Photo courtesy of Cohasset Dramatic Club

Elegantly dressed in a suit and tie, Mike Nakashima portrays Stephen, a complex character with mysterious intentions. Determined and serious, Stephen and Elizabeth share a career-minded camaraderie as he encourages her to follow her dreams, seeing her boundless potential.

With music and lyrics by Brian Yorkey, an intimate band including Music Director Sarah Troxler on piano, guitarist Jack Byrne, percussionist Michael Hobbs, bassist Jon Lay, Clarinet/Flute/Saxophone Glenn Silvia, and Cassie Sulbaran on Viola bring to life this upbeat, contemporary musical with a libretto. Clever blocking brings part of the band onstage.

Costume and props designer Irene Vifides lend to New York City’s urban vibe and signature style through big, designer purses, fashionable shoes, and impressive, colorful costumes that vary from sophisticated, city attire to a casual night in. Scenic artist Denise Feeney and Scenic projection designers Erin and Patrick Dzierzak and Dramatic Sounds create urban ambiance with recreated city sounds, black and white city skylines, and a wealth of broad, colorful landscapes depicting a few of New York City’s most famous landmarks. One of this show’s many highlights is the humorous depiction of NYC’s tiny apartments. Cohasset Dramatic Club brings to life a captivating musical depicting how complicated life can be and proving it’s also too short to miss If/Then.

Directed by Lisa Pratt, musically directed by Sarah Troxler, and choreographed by Tara Morrison, Cohasset Dramatic Club presents If/Then through March 25 at 7:30. All performances will be held at Cohasset Town Hall 41 Highland Ave in Cohasset, Massachusetts. Click here for more information and for tickets.

Other ways to support Cohasset Dramatic Club is to become a volunteer and make a donation. Sign up for their email list to learn about upcoming events and more. Click here for more about the Cohasset Dramatic Club and follow them on Facebook.