By Shanna Spuhler
The beautiful, historic Ellen Eccles Theatre in Logan, Utah was filled Saturday night for the production of The Music Man, presented by Music Theatre West. The classic atmosphere in the theatre helps set the ambiance for a wonderful production of the classic musical that became a Broadway favorite in 1957.
The Music Man, written by Meredith Willson and inspired by a story written by Willson and Franklin Lacey, follows traveling salesman Harold Hill (Tyler Whitesides) as he attempts the challenge of selling musical instruments to the uptight citizens of River City, Iowa by telling them they have trouble in their town in the fun number “Ya Got Trouble.” He is met with skepticism and apprehension from Mayor Shinn (Blake Webster) and the town’s librarian and music teacher, Marian Paroo (Jessica Mohammed.)
While the mayor attempts to find out the “professor’s” credentials, Marian is not so easily won over by Harold Hill’s charm in spite his multiple efforts to woo her, making his main appeal in “Marian the Librarian.” However, as she watches her younger brother, Winthrop (Spencer Needham), develop more confidence to overcome his fear of speaking, her heart softens toward Hill).
Trouble comes for Hill in another form when Charlie Cowell (Kyle Cottam) comes to town to restore the reputation of traveling salesmen by exposing Hill. Hill is forced to reveal his intentions to the townspeople and Marian.
Whitesides successfully portrays the charismatic Harold Hill. Mohammed dazzles as the prudish but sentimental Marian. Needham is a powerful performer with his developing character Winthrop. A few other standout characters are the town ladies, led by the mayor’s wife (Kathleen Batemen) with their humorous awkwardness andthe School Board Quartet (Blake Jolley, Stanton Allen, Travis Leonhardt, Trenton Bateman) whose vocals naturally match those of a traditional barbershop quartet.
The live orchestra, directed by Jay Richards, adds to the atmosphere of the production. Richards also directed the production with the assistance of Logan favorite Debbie Ditton. The choreography by Stephanie White, is skillfully done and features many different styles of dancing. Overall, the Logan’s The Music Man gives the appeal of being at a live Broadway show without having to travel to New York. Music Theatre West successfully displays the talents of individuals of all ages that Cache Valley has to offer.
Music Theatre West presents The Music Man. Book, Music, and Lyrics by Meredith Wilson, story by Meredith Wilson and Franklin Lacey.
September 20-21, 23, 26-28, 2019 7:30 PM, September 28 – 1:30 (this performance will be ASL translated.
Ellen Eccles Theatre, 43 South Main Street, Logan, UT 84321
Tickets: $17-$25 ($5 discount students K-university)
Music Theatre West Facebook Page
The Music Man Facebook Event
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