For a jukebox musical to be entertaining, you need a catalog of memorable songs performed by a group of appealing actors and actresses. The Ivoryton Playhouse’s presentation of Smokey Joe’s Cafe, the songs of Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, succeeds in a low-key, unpretentious production. The show plays through July 31.
The musical contains dozens of hits from the composing duo, which include “Jailhouse Rock,” “Stand By Me,” “Poison Ivy,” “Charlie Brown,” “Hound Dog,” and “On Broadway.” They are presented by a well-polished, tightly formed ensemble. There are notable solo turns as well as numerous permutations of performers belting out these well-known classics.
Each song is crafted as a mini-vignette that follows the thrust of the tune. The scenes can pull at your heartstrings or tickle your funny bone.
The nine performers - Joseph Castro, Elvie Ellis, Debra Thais Evans, Tiffany Frances, Cameron Loyal, Sandra Marante, Gabriella Saramago, Warren Nolan, Jr. and Cartreze Tucker - have an easy going style that is occasionally enlivened by Todd Underwood’s more freestyle choreography. The group of actors and actresses clearly enjoy their time on stage, adding value to their performances.
Two members of the ensemble deserve to be highlighted due to their dynamic voices and stage presence. Sandra Marante is a belter, pure and simple. Her range and power were a joy to hear. Tiffany Frances, along with an impressive singing voice, brought a self-assured foxiness during her solo numbers.
At times, as I sat in the balcony, it was hard to make out the lyrics, mostly in the large group numbers, something that should be examined to make the audience experience better.
Director Todd Underwood has shaped the show with a less boisterous, synchronized style than what I have seen from other productions. Yes, there are the intermittent full-throttled moments, but the musical is consistently more restrained in its musical presentations. He has positioned the band behind the set for Act I and then, during Act II, the windows are open to reveal the musicians, which adds a winning element to the production. Being able to view these highly-polished musicians from the onset would have been a more satisfying touch.
Cully Long’s Scenic Design consists of a brownstone’s stoop, where performers enter and exit from. Elizabeth Saylor’s Costume Designs are simple, yet varied to match the type of song being presented.
Smokey Joe’s Cafe, playing through July 31. Performance times are Wednesday and Sunday matinees at 2:00 pm; evening performances are Wednesday and Thursday at 7:30 pm, Friday and Saturday at 8:00 pm. Tickets are $55 for adults, $50 for seniors, and $25 for students. Tickets are available online at ivorytonplayhouse.org or by calling the box office at 860.767.7318. Masks are optional with proof of vaccination and required for those without a vaccination card.
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