By Val O’Bryan
Based on the film by Lee David Zlotoff, the musical The Spitfire Grill tells the story of Percy Talbott (Haley-Shea Benoit), a woman recently released from prison who decides to start a new life in a small town in Wisconsin. She gets a job at the Spitfire Grill, helping the elderly owner, Hannah Ferguson (Chrystine Potter Hyatt). Percy’s presence in the town and at the diner stirs up old wounds and secrets, but she also brings new hope and healing to the members of the community. As the seasons change, the characters in town are forced to confront their pasts and make difficult choices about their futures. The Spitfire Grill is a story of redemptions, forgiveness, and the power of a strong community. Director Kyle Myrick brings this story to life with the music and book by James Valcq and Lyrics and book by Fred Alley.
Assigned to be Percy’s parole officer, town sheriff Joe is full of warmth and humor and James David plays the part perfectly. Hannah’s nephew, Caleb (Caleb Christensen) represents the frustration of a dedicated man in a failing town. Christensen has the acting chops to do the tough job of portraying the harsh and controlling man. Shelby (Makayla Nelson-Klumpp) is the kind of friend everyone needs, highly empathetic and kind, with the voice of an angel (thanks to Nelson-Klump)! No small town is complete without a gossiping busybody and Carolyn Murset’s Effy plays this role in a way that makes the audience want to simultaneously throttle and hug her. Since he doesn’t say much, the town visitor’s (Nathan Merrill) actions show the tender feelings he has for people in the community.
The Spitfire Grill is a story of women supporting women. In addition to keeping the entire town fed, community matriarch Hannah really sets the tone for everyone else to follow. Although tensions between them are high at first, each of the women is able to assert their autonomy and have deep, meaningful relationships with one another.
Myrick’s technical direction and Merrill’s scenic design and construction creates a set that is a carefully designed diner. There are important details placed all around that reveal personal details about Hannah. The lighting in the background of the set helped to indicate the time of day and the season. The lighting is exquisite during “Shine,” sung by Percy.
The cast is very strong vocally. Benoit’s vocals are expressive and soulful. Hyatt is a convincing Hannah whose vocals illustrate that Hannah’s gruff, hostile façade is just a cover for her deep compassion and love. The solos are outstanding and the group harmonies are emotive and resonant. Thanks to music director Melodie Kimzey for songs that bring the audience to tears. The audience should also pay attention to how the cast wardrobes (costumers change to reflect the inner emotional shifts of the characters, no doubt the genius of costume designer Sammy Myrick. The subtle ways that the characters engage with their props show their development throughout the play, with functional, yet meaningful pieces selected by props master Debbie Garrett.
Come alive again at Hurricane Theatrical’s The Spitfire Grill. It’s delicious.
Hurricane Theatrical presents The Spitfire Grill, music and book by James Valcq and Lyrics and book by Fred Alley.
Hurricane City Fine Arts Building, 63 S 100 W, Hurricane, UT 84737
April 17, 21-22, 24, 28-29, and May 1, 5-6, 2023 7:00 PM
April 8, 15, 22, 29, May 6 2:00 PM
Tickets: $8-18
Contact: 435-668-9753
Hurricane Theatrical Facebook Page
0 Comments