Looking to get into the spirit of our nation’s 250th birthday? A perfect option would be the jukebox musical Swingtime Canteen, playing at the Sharon Playhouse through July 5.
The thin plot, which, for a show like this isn’t too critical, centers on five women who are entering American troops stationed at an air base outside London. They are led by the glamorous movie star Marian Ames (Margaret Dudasik), and include her young cousin Katie (Lucy Rhoades) on Trumpet; a former “Rosie the Riveter,” Topeka (Claire Marie Spencer) on piano; a wise-cracking drummer, Jo (Sarah Beth Palmer); and a perky, self-absorbed sax player, Lilly (Michelle Lemon). The women sing, in assorted combinations, over a dozen songs associated with the wartime era. They include an extended Andrew Sisters medley, “His Rocking Horse Ran Away,” “Sentimental Journey,” “Sing Sing Sing,” and many more.
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| Margaret Dudasik, Michelle Lemon, and Lucy Rhoades in Swingtime Canteen. |
All the performers have gorgeous voices, which blend beautifully together. They have a believable chemistry that enhances the overall stage work of the show. And they do play their own instruments, augmented by a marvelous backup trio of Mallory Kokus (clarinet, sax), Kim Bonsanti (trumpet, flugelhorn), and Lauren Seery (bass).
The book by Linda Thorsen Bond, William Repicci, and Charles Busch encapsulates humorous backstage antics, poignant personal stories, and stirring moments of camaraderie. The authors know a searing, complex libretto isn’t the point of Swingtime Canteen. They keep the material light and the verbal interplays short so the musical interludes can begin anew.
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| The cast of Swingtime Canteen. |
Director Carl Andress paces the production with a lively spirit full of robust energy and enthusiasm. Choreographer Krystyna Resavy provides the actresses with a few sprightly dance numbers that invigorate the production.
The Scenic Design by recent Connecticut Critic Circle winners Christopher and Justin Swader is festive, yet reserved; Aidan English’s Lighting Design effectively bathes the stage in an array of splashy and dramatic tones; while Sound Designer Graham Stone keeps the music dynamic and the sound effects authentic. Costume Designer Kathleen Deangelis is on the mark with the period garb, and Bobbie Zlotnik’s Wig Design captures the essence of wartime America.
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| The cast of Swingtime Canteen. |
Swingtime Canteen, playing at the Sharon Playhouse through July 5. Click here for dates, times, and ticket information.
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