REPRISE 2.0 REBORN: A DAZZINLING SWEET CHARITY

REVIEW: SWEET CHARITY

BY RYAN M. LUÉVANO

The theatre company formerly known as Reprise! (now Reprise 2.0) is back and better than ever serving up a sensational presentation of the classic musical Sweet Charity. For their inaugural season the resurrected theatre company has partnered with the UCLA School of Theatre, Film, and Television’s Department of Theater (UCLA TFT), chaired by Brian Kite. This season that opens with Sweet Charity also includes Victor Victoria and Grand Hotel, all to be performed at the Freud Playhouse at UCLA.

Laura Bell Bundy and Barrett Foa. Photo Credit: Michael Lamont

Upon seeing Reprise 2.0’s presentation of Sweet Charity two things immediately come to mind: one, they don’t make musicals like this anymore, and two, the new Reprise 2.0’s comeback is nothing short of extraordinary—the future is bright for Reprise 2.0. The story of Sweet Charity is simple, a dance hall hostess named Charity goes in search of love in the New York City in the 1966. What makes this simple tale come to life is the contributions of the illustrious writing team that includes: Neil Simon (book), Cy Coleman (music) and Dorothy Fields (lyrics). Even if you can’t remember the story, Coleman’s hit parade of favorites, such as “Big Spender”, “If My Friends Could See Me Know”, “I’m the Bravest Individual”, “I’m a Brass Band” and “Too Many Tomorrows”, will keep you entertained even after you leave the theater.

Keeping with the theatre company’s original concept the production follows suit by utilizing simple sets, costumes, the band on stage and outstanding directors and choreographers. Directing and choregraphing this production is Broadway’s most celebrated artist, three-time Tony-winning director, Kathleen Marshall. Somehow Marshall is able to squeeze every last drop of razzle-dazzle out this glorious 60s musical, her direction is superb. From the slow, slinky and sexy struts in “Big Spender”, to the deliciously groovy and psychedelic Fosse inspired “Rich Man’s Frug”, to the jazzy showstoppers like “If My friends Could See Me Now” Marshall’s choreography is a feast for the eyes and a vision into the past—every time they start dancing you wish it lasts just a little while longer.

Terron Brooks and the ensemble. Photo Credit: Michael Lamont.

Leading the stellar cast is another celebrated Broadway performer Laura Bell Bundy who proves that she was born to play Charity—she captivates audiences the moment she enters the stage. Bundy is a powerhouse performer who digs deep into any character she plays to bring audiences a thoroughly enjoyable and robust performance. Not only does Bundy deliver Coleman’s jazzy score with unwavering force but she channels her inner Lucille Ball and Carol Burnett to give us a Charity that is silly, playful and also sincere.

“NCIS: Los Angeles” actor Barrett Foa (Oscar) is a perfect match for Bundy with his nerdy histrionics. Robert Mammana (Vittorio Vidal) gives a charming character performance of this Italian movie star, complete with a controlled and sweet rendition of the ballad “Too Many Tomorrows”. Terron Brooks expressive voice leads the ensemble in a smooth and groovy rendition of “Rhythm of Life” whose rhythm you can feel down to your toes. Kristen Joy Brown and Yvette Gonzalez-Nacer get to show us their stellar vocal chops in “There Got To Be Something Better Than This” and “Baby Dream Your Dream”—there so much power and finesse in these two young voices. Jon Jon Birones (Herman) steps in the end to lead the cast in the energetic and rousing “I Love to Cry at Weddings”.

Laura Bell Bundy, Barrett Foa, Jon Jon Briones (center) and the ensemble. Photo Credit: Michael Lamont.

WHAT ABOUT THE MUSIC DIRECTOR?

Gerald Sternbach returns as music director for Reprise 2.0 expertly leading the on-stage orchestra from the piano. He and the orchestra make these historic orchestrations swing, and sizzle from overture to finale—the finest musicians in town are playing what feels like a private Sweet Charity concert and you need to hear it.

Welcome back Reprise 2.0 by attending their inaugural production of Sweet Charity, there’s something for everyone in this show that’s as sweet as it is sensational.

TICKETS AND MORE INFO:

Venue: UCLA’s Freud Playhouse

Macgowan Hall, 245 Charles E Young Dr E , Los Angeles, CA 90095

Dates:  Now through Sunday, July 1

Playing Schedule: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday evenings at 8 pm,

Saturdays at 2pm and 8 pm; Sundays at 2pm and 7 pm

Single Tickets: 

Website: Reprise2.org

Phone: 800-982-2787

Group Sales 310-281-1800

Prices: $75.00 to $110.00 (premium also available); students with ID $30.00

REPRISE 2.0 Subscriptions:

Website: Reprise2.org/subscriptions

Phone: 866-811-4111