By Cindy Whitehair
New York, New York – it’s a wonderful town – and Utah Rep’s Ordinary Days lets you see the romantic side of the city through the eyes of two couples. Ordinary Days is a delightful operetta that will keep you enthralled.
The Sugar Space Studio Theater in Sugarhouse is a cozy little black box. Even though space was limited, the space fit the feel for the show. The set (designed by director Chase Ramsey) was simple yet bold. Scenic Arts Designer Amanda Ruth Wilson’s use of bright bold colors really welcomed you in.
The couples – Jason (Matthew Wade) and Claire (Mandi Barrus), the romantic couple, and Warren (Thomas Kulkus) and Deb (Brighton Hertford), the friends, were delightful and well fleshed out. Warren was a wide-eyed optimist with a way of looking at the world with an almost child-like innocence. Deb is New York cynicism in a skirt – who is always looking for a “big picture” that is just over the horizon. Jason is the boy next door, somewhat new to the Big Apple, who is madly in love with Claire who clearly loves Jason but a mystery in her past is holding her back.
This show is fast-paced. Director Chase Ramsey found a balance between each story line and couple. He made great, imaginative use of a small space. The vision and music of the playwright (Adam Gwon) and his love for the city shone through.
The actors make this show. Thomas Kulkus’ Warren was sweet, silly, dreamy and lovable and a marvelous counter to Deb’s frenetic fast paced ways. Brighton Hertford’s Deb was sharp, sassy yet never satisfied with her life–until she meets Warren. Mandi Barrus and Matthew Wade had such chemistry – you really pictured them as a couple. What really broke my heart and brought a tear to my eye was during “I’ll Be Here” as Clair’s mysterious past is finally revealed. Matthew Wade brought a sweet earnestness to Jason that was just adorable.
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The entire cast, but especially Brighton Hertford, should be commended on is their diction. So many times, in community theater, fast paced songs end up slurred and mumbled. But as fast paced as this show was – you could understand every word sung. It allowed you to enjoy the music in the way it was written and it was really a joy to watch.
A special shout out must go to pianist/music director Jeanne McGuire. The music for this production is very difficult and she was amazing.
Utah Rep’s production of Ordinary Days is the 100th production of the show. Since this is a milestone production, we were treated to a Q&A after the show with playwright/composer Adam Gwon. He gave the audience a nice insight into his background and what inspired him with this show.
The Sugar Space Studio Theater is a small space, so get your tickets in advance as this show will sell out quickly.
Utah Repertory Theater Company presents Adam Gwon’s Ordinary Days at the Sugar Space Studio Theater 616 Wilmington Ave Salt Lake City UT. Performances are July 10-26 and can be purchased online at http://utahrep.org/tickets/ . Tickets are $10.00 but there is a “pay what you can” matinee at 2pm on Sunday July 19.
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