EVERLY - The Music of the Everly Brothers - Ivoryton Playhouse

EVERLY – the Music of the Everly Brothers, playing at the Ivoryton Playhouse through April 28, is more of a concert than a jukebox musical.  There is no libretto or any assemblance of a book.  Instead, the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Famer’s lives and career – the high’s and low’s – are presented with snippets interspersed between the rollicking tunes and somber ballads.

The Everly Brothers – Don and Phil – were pioneers of country rock and influenced a who’s who of musical legends, including Bob Dylan, Paul McCartney and John Lennon.  The two actors in the show, Eric Anthony and Ben Hope are engaging, personable, and fabulous musicians.  The real-life friends bring a joy and infectious temperament to the production they created.  As with a concert setting, they joke with the audience (as well as themselves) and urge those in attendance to sing along.  Dozens of songs are performed during the production, including such hits as "Bye Bye Love", "Wake Up Little Susie", "All I Have to Do Is Dream", and "Cathy's Clown."

 

 

Eric Anthony and Ben Hope in EVERLY - The Music of the Everly Brothers.

 

Both Anthony and Hope perform double, even triple duty on the show.  Hope is also the Director, Scenic and Costume Designer.  Anthony is the Musical Director for the musical.  As Director, Hope brings a laid back, easygoing style to the presentation.  He and his partner simply roam from one side of the stage to the other, stop, impart a quick story, and go into song.

 

The Sound Design by Jonathan White is clear and crisp no matter where one is seated.  Ben Hope’s Scenic Design, like the production as a whole, is modest in its concept.  Large geometric shapes float above the stage, serving as screens for Jessica Drayton and Jonathan White’s projections.  Most of the projections are moody, abstract works; colorful patterns, and scenes of nature, which don’t always relate to the songs presented on stage.

  

EVERLY – the Music of the Everly Brothers, playing at the Ivoryton Playhouse through April 28.  Click here for dates, times and ticket information.