By Front Row Reviewers Staff
The Empress Theatre is presenting Company, a Stephen Sondheim masterpiece that isn’t often produced in Utah and Front Row Reviewers was lucky enough to enjoy this amazing show. Congrats to The Empress—Company impresses and entertains. Company does exactly what Sondheim does best, brings to life the joy, sadness, love, and reality of human relationships.
Company dives into the heart and mind of Robert (David Nichols) on his 35th birthday, where his dearest friends all coupled up and married or soon to be married have gathered to throw him a surprise party. They mercilessly tease him about his single life, remind him of his need to be married, and wish for him a wife on this rather “important” birthday. The story that follows is an examination of each couple as Robert is given an in-depth look at what it means to be married. He contemplates his own life as he decides if marriage is really the right choice for him.
Nichols as Robert is charming, funny, and magnetic. He masterfully interacts with each character as his vocals and delivery tug at all the emotions you hope to experience in live theater. Nichols ultimately leaves every audience member wishing they were among the friends invited to the party. Merilee Adams is quirky, flirty, and loveable as Sarah, wife to Harry, played by Michael Ricks. Ricks’ wonderful vocals in “Sorry/Grateful” showcases his talent beautifully. Jessica Benson as Jenny gives a hilarious, yet truly heartbreaking performance. Her magnificent vocals support the cast throughout the show. Matthew Davids as David wonderfully portrays the man you can’t help but hate. Davids’ amazing acting skills leaves no question as to the motives of his character. Katelyn Johnson as Amy shares her expert comedic timing and an astonishing voice (and an uncanny ability to talk really fast). Brandwynn Michelle offers a fast-paced, hilarious, and vocally remarkable performance as Marta, a young New Yorker. Jim Dale’s performance as Larry is believable and endearing. In his brief time onstage, Dale brings life and love to the stage in a way that I believe Sondheim would have appreciated. Emily Jameson as Kathy is engaging and sweet and she harmonizes beautifully with Cassie Hurt-Mclarty (April). The audience’s delighted laughing at Hurt-Mclarty’s performance had this fine comedic actress barely getting her lines out. Joanne (Sara Murphy), the all-too-knowledgeable wife of Larry sings “Ladies who Lunch” and almost steals the show. Murphy’s remarkable vocals fill the stage. Other memorable and talented cast members include Nate Kemp and Kayla Barlow as lovable couple Peter and Susan, and Jenn George as Paige, who all add personal touches to their characters during “Side by Side” and bring us into their stories.
Choreography by Megan Honey for “Side by Side” is impressive and showcases the talents of those onstage very well. Music direction from Steven Brochinsky and Brett Bawden must have been a huge undertaking, as any Sondheim show is, however, the music certainly does not disappoint. The music is delivered beautifully and is an integral part of Robert’s journey. Both music directors did a phenomenal job of balancing and blending the talented voices of this amazing cast. Josh Adams, Director of Company, was able to bring this 1970’s (that’s right, written about 50 years ago!) classic into the digital age. His use of technology and updated scenes really makes the interesting characters and insightful stories relevant. Adams demonstrates his true understanding of human relationships in his direction of this cast as he navigates Robert between and around each couple.
Aaron Eatchel on sound brought every note to the theater beautifully. Lighting Designer Jackson Olney kept the mood up and down and all over, enhancing every mood. The cast did their own costumes, and they are spot on for each character. Sara Murphy did the painting, which was brilliant. Assistant directors Danny Keetch and Michelle Garcia handled props and set design—another spectacular aspect of the show. Company is perfect for company, and perfect for all who are wise enough to attend the performance. The Empress Theatre’s Company is sweet and sad and funny and since this show is rarely produced in Utah, catch it before the party is over.
The Empress Theatre presents Company, by Stephen Sondheim.
The Empress Theatre, 9104 2700 S, Magna, UT 84044
April 7-23, 2023, Monday, Thursday- Saturday 7:30 PM, Saturday matinees 2:00 PM
Tickets: Monday/Thursday $20, Friday/Saturday $25
Contact: 801-347-7373, empress@empresstheatre.com
The Empress Theatre Facebook Page
Photo Credit: Beth Bruner
Dave Nichols was incredible and the star of the show! Amazing acting and excellent voice! 5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️!