By Ashlei Havili Thomas
A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder at Brigham’s Playhouse in Washington, Utah, may be a mouthful, but the names of the characters that end up dead is even more of one. Located in an antique recreation of a pioneer town square, the intimate setting at Brigham’s Playhouse is perfect for this musical comedy. While Gentleman’s Guide is not a name most are familiar with, I heard a few say they were already back for a second time, even though the show was just at the end of its opening weekend. The uproarious laughter and applause throughout the show made it apparent: if you have the opportunity, make sure to not pass over this show.
After an opening number warning the audience of the “disturbing” nature of the show, the musical hilarity begins. Gentleman’s Guide follows the story of Monty Navarro in narrated flashbacks as he writes his confession in jail. Navarro–upon his mother’s death–discovers he is a member of the distinguished D’Ysquith family and eighth in line for an earldom. When he reaches out to these newfound family members, he is snubbed due to his lack of money and station; coupled with his desire to marry the girl he loves, his road of villainy is set. This becomes even more apparent after his love marries another for wealth and nobility. Navarro becomes set on the earldom, even marrying to increase his status. The play is filled with raucous and surreal quips, situations, and wit, taking a fresh look at an overused premise.
Monty Navarro is played by Jadon Webster Whose flamboyant air and slight mania make him the perfect villain and a charismatic protagonist. Webster carries the bulk of songs and lines, many of the songs fast and verbose, but never loses energy. He consistently carries the comedy to the punchline, often building and heightening for added laughs. Megan Rees as Sibella and Jasmine Anderson as Phoebe are as different as possibly imaginable; in image, vocal range and character. Yet as the opposite corners of the musical’s love triangle they are perfectly matched. This is most easily seen in “I’ve Decided to Marry You,” where though the characters clash as Monty is torn between the two women, all three voices blend harmoniously to create a seamless juxtaposition. This powerhouse trio drives the heart of the play, getting the audience invested in the storyline with seeming effortlessness.
Jamie Young plays all nine of the other D’Ysquith heirs (no, that is not a typo, I meant nine not eight. I won’t spoil the show just to explain) in rapid succession, both figuratively and literally. Not only is it easy to believe they’re all related, it brings added hilarity as both men and women are in the mix of characters. Young does it all with ease, creating distinct characters with little more than a different pair of eyebrows or a wig and lipstick. He takes it all in stride, even uncontrollable laughter. While professing the virtues of the newly invented “yoghurt enema”, both Young and Webster broke into fits laughter, but Young made it to the punchline before things got too out of hand. Just goes to show that the same line doesn’t get old, even for the performers.
The cast as a whole performed wonderfully. Their vocals bested those I’ve heard at other amateur companies, and their acting–while cohesive–was also diverse. Boring is the last word I would use to describe this cast. Each member was so invested in their individual roles, and watching each one was a delight. I was impressed by the caliber of their performance and the gusto with which they gave it. They filled the space better with eleven people than could have been done with fifty. I have no doubt people will be coming back again and again for this monumental cast.
The many different settings of the show would be challenge for most set designers, but not for Andrew Partin. Though the scenery is simple, he makes the absolute most of the space, pulling the audience into the world of the show. Similarly, Dale Hoopes’ lighting design is simple but effective using different colors to denote certain things: green for villainy, pink for Sibella, blue for Phoebe, etc. Savannah Waldron does wonders with her costume design; while it may not be ornate, the different fabrics and minimal patterns pop in the intimate theater space. Jamie Young, Karissa John and Dale Hoopes along with the ensemble direct the show, keeping the pace moving and the audience entranced. This production is one that will have you chuckling to yourself for days.
A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder is definitely a show for the whole family to enjoy. It does address the topic of death, though in such a lighthearted manner you may wonder if you’re a killer at heart when you laugh along. The theater is a little hard to find in the pitch black of early winter nights, but you can find very precise directions on the theater’s website. The show from start to finish is a 2 ½ hour side-splitter. You’ll get more bang for your buck with this musical, and will definitely regret it if you don’t catch a glimpse before it closes. Go early so you can go again to this sure to be new family favorite.
Brigham’s Playhouse presents A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder, with Book and Lyrics by Robert L. Freedman, Music and Lyrics by Steven Lutvak.
Brigham’s Playhouse, 25 N. 300 W. Building C1, Washington, UT 84780
Jan. 10-12, 17-19, 24-26, 31, Feb. 1-2, 7-9, 14-16, 7:00 PM
Jan. 12, 19, 26, Feb. 2, 9, 16 2:00 PM
Tickets: $17-23
Contact: 435-251-8000 or boxoffice@brighamsplayhouse.com
Brigham’s Playhouse Facebook Page
A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder Facebook Event
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