THEATER REVIEW
The eternal question, "Why do Fools Fall in Love?" may not be readily answered, but the musical of the same name through March 10 at The Pines Dinner Theatre, Allentown, attempts to explore the stages of love through popular song.
The setting is Millie's (Gwen Swanson Vigorito) "Pop-Tart" pink walled living room where her friends Florence (Stacy Bechtel), Sally (Lauren Eitzenberger) and Dee Dee (Stacey B. Yoder) have gathered to celebrate Millie's upcoming nuptials.
Millie has a secret, but so do the others and, as the drinks flow, snowball cakes are consumed and Swanson TV dinners bake in the oven, the four women begin to reveal their thoughts on matters of the heart.
Playwright Roger Bean's "Why do Fools Fall in Love?" is heavy on song and light on dialogue. There is just enough non-song interaction between the four characters to advance the plot. The result is a delectable smorgasbord of pop tunes that will leave all but the most stoic of audiences singing along.
The 19 tunes performed in the two-act play are well-known hits of the 1960's. Each actress is given multiple opportunities to showcase her vocal range with solos that alternate fairly evenly between the cast.
The four performers each have a distinct vocal style and range and the division of songs is suited to their individual strengths.
Costumes designed by Carline Blatt capture the spirit of the times in bold Technicolor.
Oliver Blatt, wearing many hats in his role as director, music director, choreographer and set and lightingdDesigner, hits all the right notes in bringing the darling jukebox show to life.
While the girls question their own choices in love and seek answers through the wisdom of the "Magic 8-Ball, " they grow more self aware as their character arcs progress.
Like a sweet sugary snowball cake, the play is sprinkled with a hearty coating of humor and a delicious serving of song. Many audience members will recognize popular favorites such as "He's a Rebel," "I Will Follow Him," and "Goin' Out of My Head."
The four female leads are well-cast in the lively production and audiences will fall in love with this enjoyable production. Don't be a "fool" and miss out on this yummy musical treat.