You are probably not going to believe this but until yesterday when I attended Quad City Music Guild’s production of A Little Night Music, I had never seen a show written by Steven Sondheim – I didn’t even know that he wrote “Send in the Clowns.” Love Joni Mitchell’s rendition, just didn’t pay attention to who wrote it. I hereby humbly offer multiple sincere mea culpas for this egregious oversight. I was thoroughly enchanted.
Director Colleen Houlihan has assembled a galaxy of talent that rivals any professional cast. And there are not enough superlatives in the dictionary to describe the excellence of this show. Houlihan’s program notes describe the script as, “At its core…is a story about love – unrequited and re-ignited – with as many relationships destined for eternity as doomed for failure. The show is a farce, poking fun at the opera with its soaring arias and wildly melodramatic plots.” And I might add that Paulla Houston as Mrs. Nordstrom hits an amazing high note that rivals any diva.
Heading up the cast as Desireé Armfeldt and Fredrik Egerman are the amazing Rachel C. Vickers and QCMG icon Kevin Pieper. Not only do their musical numbers soar but their acting is funny, touching and sincere.
Actually, trying to single anyone out is impossible. Each and every one of the performers nailed their parts perfectly to my eye.
Kudos also go out to Roger Pavey, Jr. for his elegant set design and Cathy Marsoun for her sumptuous costumes. The Quad Cities’ theatre community is going to miss the massively talented Pavey who just graduated from Augustana College and is pursuing new opportunities in Massachusetts this summer.
Hey, I’ve got a great idea. Taking your dad to this show would be a great Fathers Day gift – hint, hint.
A Little Night Music continues at Quad City Music Guild’s theatre in Moline’s Prospect Park Thursday through Saturday, June 13 through 15 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, June 16 at 2:00 p.m.
I’m Chris Hicks…break a leg.