***** It seems that Kokandy Productions has mastered the art of “chamber musicals”. They have also mastered the art of space management. Let me start by telling you that this theater company continues to utilize the lower level venue of The Chopin Theatre as never before, and it is a delight to see. The current production, ” Amelie the Musical” based on the French film, with a book by Craig Lucas, music by Daniel Messe and lyrics by Nathan Tysen & Messe is a love story that is quite musical and is what I consider a “chamber” piece. For those unfamiliar with the term “chamber” it is a classic musical piece written for a small ensemble of instruments typically with one performer per part. In this production, everyone in nthe play is able to play at least one musical instrument and in some cases, as many as three.The story is one about Amelie ( Aurora Penpacker is dynamic in this role). She is a little strange, saving objects that others would never want. She is also a do-gooder ( someone who wants to help those around her and to make everyone feel happiness). As she takes her own personal journey, she finds her true love, and it is also not one that is very ordinary. Nino ( played to perfection by Joe Giovannetti) collects photos. Not just photos, but discarded ones that for the most part are torn and ruined, and found near a photo booth in the train station ( which always seems to be broken). These two end up falling in love, but the way the story unfolds beautifully directed byDerek Van Barham ( who also choreographed it as well) is absolutely amazing.
Part of the direction/choreography is the set up of the theater and the sight lines. I will say that the tables and chairs, giving the show a cabaret style is nice, but I think removing the two tables that block the views on the side would be beneficial. Yes, Kokandy would lose 4 tickets per performance, but they would not lose patrons who felt that they were misisng some of the action. I am only thinking of the beauty they have created not being wasted on those who are viewing the wonderful cast and production.
The ensemble is sheer perfection, each and every one do their roles in a unique manner and brng the story to life with great artistry. Bravo to Todd Autwurm ( one of his roles is Elton John- super job), Lucas Buff, Rachel Carreras, Sam Hook, Sonia Goldberg, Mizha Lee Overn, Jon Patrick Penick, Kelan M. Smith, Samantha Ringor, and Quinn Rigg- you were all terrific, flittling around, changing characters, costumes and musical instruments- wow is all I can say.
On the tech side of the production, the set and lighting design by G “Max” Maxin IV is very cool, the sound by Lynsy Folkomer & Mackenzie Hahn perfect ( designed by Matt Reich), and the intimacy design by Kirsten Baity, believable. In addition to the cast members handling instruments, there are two “pit” musicians- Kara Olander (bass) and Anna Wegener(keys) who keep it all in tune.
If you can handle stairs, the lower level of the Chopin Theatre located at 1543 West Division Street is the place to go for quality theater. “Amelie the Musical ” will continue through September 28th with performances as follows:
Thursdays:7:00pmFridays:7:00pm
Saturdays:7:00pm
Sundays:5:00pm
Show Type: Comedy/Drama/musical ( chamber )
Box Office: 773-278-1500
To see what others are saying, visit www.theatreinchicago.com, go to Review Round-Up and click at “Amelie the Musical”.
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