It's never easy to create a fresh theatrical interpretation of a production that has been heralded around the globe for several decades.
But director Gary Bolen, The Bruce Ariss Memorial Wharf Theatre and Monterey Peninsula College Theatre Company have come together to accomplish this once more, with their latest production of the musical "Cabaret."
The 12-time Tony Award-
winning musical plays at the historic theater on Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey through Sunday.
The story takes place in a sleazy nightclub in Berlin on the brink of the Nazi takeover of Germany. Amidst the sinister backdrop of impending World War II, Sally Bowles, a cabaret singer, falls in love with an American writer, while the German woman who owns the boardinghouse they reside in falls in love with an older Jewish man.
As the cabaret artists dance to escape the terror of what's going on in the world — and to offer refuge to those who seek to be amused — the dance numbers move the plot from lighthearted entertainment to darker reality, all the while overshadowed by the creepy master of ceremonies.
The Master of Ceremonies (Peter Hoffman) gave an exacting performance punctuated by facial emotions to create an absolute believability in this fearful but cynical little man.
Fraulein Schneider (Phyllis Davis) and Herr Schultz (Mitchell Davis) were able to re-create the quandary so many Germans experienced during the early 1930s. I felt extreme sadness
The romantic relationship between Cliff Bradshaw (Rob Devlin), the American, and Bowles (Jill Miller) was well played by Devlin, but lacked commitment by Miller, who did not really find herself and relax until she sang the title song, which she performed extremely well.
Devlin was honest with his character. You felt a desire to meet him at the cabaret and buy him a drink.
Ernst Ludwic (Erik Morton) created a smooth change from a friend of Bradshaw's, to a darker, meanacing character, a dark cloud over Germany.
From black net stockings to skimpy outfits, the Kit Kat Girls were gorgeous. Bolen's blocking of actors, crews and all in a very tight little theater was amazing.
The set design gave one the feel of a beer hall and theater, where the drinks were flowing.
The choreography was exciting, moving from hyperactive to freeze frame while allowing the story to move foward. Some of the musical numbers were just flat-out funny.
Musical director Barney Hulse has woven musical magic with a beautiful band, great fun, good sound and seamless transitions.
At times I wanted to break into song right along with the cast. I must confesss — I did so quietly to myself.
Herald correspondent Lily Dayton contributed to this review. GO!
THEATER REVIEW
·What: Monterey Peninsula College Theatre Company presents "Cabaret"
·Where: The Bruce Ariss Memorial Wharf Theater, Fisherman's Wharf, Monterey
·When: Continues at 7:30p.m. Thu-Sat, with 2p.m. Sunday matinees through July 15
·Tickets: $25 general, $22 seniors, $15 young adults (16-21) and military, and $10 children 15 and under; 24-hour advance purchase, $20; online $18 for adults and seniors. Available through the MPC Box Office (646-4213) Wednesdays from 3-7p.m., Thu-Fri 3-5p.m., at the performance venue 90 minutes prior to any show, or online at www.TicketGuys.com; Dinner & Theatre packages available for $36 per person, including a prix fixe menu at Isabella's on the Wharf and tickets for the show (price does not include gratuity, drinks or dessert); available only at the MPC Box office at least 24 hours in advance
·Information: 646-4213 or www.mpctheatre.com
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