By Jason and Alisha Hagey
The production of Souvenir by Pioneer Theatre Company is a triumph of humanity, heart, and comedy. The unlikely tale of Florence Foster Jenkins, a socialite with more self-assurance than singing ability, is transformed into a moving examination of friendship, artistry, and what it means to succeed in this two-person drama. From its first dissonant note to its heart-wrenching ending, Souvenir enthralls audiences with its blend of quietly moving moments and laugh-out-loud humor.
Through the eyes of her accompanist, Souvenir chronicles the fascinating and legendary career of Florence Foster Jenkins, who was renowned for her wildly off-key singing and unwavering faith in her abilities. Cosmé McMoon chronicles their peculiar partnership as Jenkins unexpectedly becomes famous, leading to her infamous concert at Carnegie Hall in 1944. As Jenkins relentlessly pursues her ambition, Cosmé transforms from a skeptic to Jenkins’ most resolute ally. In addition to music, the play’s core themes include boldness, self-expression, and the beauty of following one’s dreams, no matter how improbable.
Stephen Temperley (Playwright) creates an intricate and multi-layered narrative. Temperley’s striking balance between humor and reflection ensures that the play has an impact that goes well beyond its amusing premise and encourages viewers to consider topics of ambition, artistry, and having the guts to pursue their dreams. Temperley leaves a lasting impression long after the last note with Souvenir, celebrating the human spirit in all its lovely faults.
Under the assured guidance of Wes Grantom (Director), Souvenir thrives with a flawless equilibrium between comedy and subtle emotional undertones. Grantom allows fun moments to explode with laughter while maintaining the anguished undercurrents. His astute observation of the script’s nuances guarantees that Jenkins is never reduced to caricature but instead appears as a complex, fully formed character whose tale is entertaining and inspirational.
As the audience’s guide through this unorthodox success story, Bob Walton (Cosmé McMoon) makes Cosmé come to life with wry humor and poignant nuance. His depiction uses clever comedic timing to show Cosmé’s cautious involvement in Jenkins’ musical exploits. But Walton also gives Cosmé a depth of emotion that becomes increasingly noticeable as their bond strengthens. Then there is his phenomenal accomplishment as he tickles the ivories and waxes musically eloquent with his Cole Porter-esque sentimentality and nostalgia – Walton is fantastic.
In a breathtaking performance, Linda Mugleston (Florence Foster Jenkins) plays the infamous diva with grace, charm, and unrestrained fire. Florence’s wonderfully off-key interpretations of operatic classics showcase Mugleston’s comedic skills, but she never lets the fun get in the way of the character’s genuineness. It has to be hard to be that tone-deaf when you’re a superb singer. Mugleston’s characterization is pitch-perfect.
With flair and style, Souvenir‘s design elements immerse audiences in Jenkins’ universe. Jo Winiarski (Scenic Design) turns the stage into this brilliant representation of the play itself, of Jenkins herself. The circle of the stage is a little askance from a circle. The levels are more asymmetric ovals than proportionate platforms. The proscenium is as expected on one side and beautifully bent on the other. Notwithstanding, the stage harmonies in its purposeful imperfections – the scenic design is a paragon.
A visual feast, the ensembles designed by K.L. Alberts (Costume Design) highlight Jenkins’ lively personality and the magnificence of her era in various stunning combinations. The quick-change, rapid-fire transformations are as dizzying and marvelous as Jenkins. Yang Yu (Lighting Design) adds dimension and tone to each scene while delicately emphasizing the emotional beats by deftly counterbalancing the tender and the amusing. The design team works immaculately to produce an engaging visual and aural experience that enhances the actors’ work and the overall show.
Pioneer Theatre Company’s Souvenir is a charming and poignant ode to tenacity, camaraderie, and the transformational potential of aspirations. This show is funny and moving, supported by two outstanding performances and enhanced by superb design and direction. Souvenir stands as a reminder that perfection isn’t necessarily the measure of success – and may even leave you humming a little off-key as you leave the theatre.
Runtime: 90 minutes with intermission
Pioneer Theatre Company Presents Souvenir by Stephen Temperley
“Souvenir” is presented by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC, servicing the
Dramatists Play Service imprint
DATES:
December 6-21, 2024
TIMES:
Monday – Thursday, 7:00 PM
Friday and Saturday, 7:30 PM
Saturday, 2:00 PM
Souvenir will be performed at PTC’s Meldrum Theatre at the Einar Nielsen Field House
375 South 1400 East, Salt Lake City
TICKETS:
$44 – $57 in advance; $5 more when purchased on day of show
Students K – 12 or ages 5-18 are half-price Monday – Thursday
Curtain Call for All (“pay what you can”) performance: Monday, December 9 at 7:00 PM
Discounts are available for University of Utah students, staff, and faculty.
MORE INFO:
Box Office: 801-581-6961
Open 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Monday – Friday
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