Side By Side By Sondheim
A Musical Celebration
Directed by Andi Allen
Music Direction by Cody Dry
Reviewed by Glynda Welch
Stephen Sondheim won an Academy Award, 8 Tony Awards, 8 Grammy Awards, a Pulitzer Prize and a 2015 Presidential Medal of Freedom. The film success of Gypsy and West Side Story earned him fame for the words he wrote for the music composed by Jules Styne and Leonard Bernstein. Those familiar songs are featured in Theatre Frisco’s production of Side by Side by Sondheim, but the real treasures of the evening are some of Sondheim’s lesser known works.
Ken O’Reilly’s performance of “Anyone Can Whistle” was mesmerizing. A haunting ballad, this song from the musical of the same name compelled audience attention. Accompanying him on keyboard was Joey O’Reilly, who was introduced as Ken’s son just before the song. In the hands of these artists, this new-to-me Sondheim song quickly became my new favorite.
Jodi Crawford Wright delighted with old and new favorites. Her rendition of “The Boy From…” was cheeky and fun, exactly what a parody should be. “I Never Do Anything Twice” elicited more than a few chuckles from audience around me. By the time she stepped forward to sing “Send in the Clowns” in the second act, I knew it would be everything anyone could expect from that old standard.
Alana Fabio’s incredible range was featured on “Another Hundred People,” “Losing My Mind,” “Broadway Baby,” and “A Boy Like That.” Andrea Fernandez Tom and David Noel paired up for several of Sondheim’s relationship songs including “Little Things,” “Barcelona,” and “We’re going to be All Right.”
There were full cast numbers, mixed pairings, trios, and quartets as this talented ensemble treated the audience to 30 musical numbers. There was definitely comedy on hand as well, with fun moments in “If Momma Was Married,” “Can That Boy Foxtrot,” and “You Gotta Get a Gimmick,” among others. The set, designed by Rodney Dobbs, suggested backstage space at a theater. Costumes pieces were added to enhance individual numbers. Dallas Costume Shoppe provided costumes.
Musical Director Cody Dry was on stage, and on keyboard, for most of the evening. Although cast members sometimes introduced each other, Dry served as host and historian for the evening. I really appreciated the background information he offered, especially in connection to some of the lesser known work. As choreographed by Director Andi Allen, the dance/movement of the singers is perfectly balanced. Any less would have made us feel restless, and any more would have detracted from the vocals.
Get your tickets now for this opening show of the 2023 season at Theatre Frisco. Performances run through March 5th, in the Black Box Theater of the Frisco Discovery Center, on N. Dallas Parkway in Frisco. Theatre Frisco often plays to sold-out runs, so don’t delay.
Experience Live Theater!
Glynda Welch
Audience Rating: G
Accessible Seating: Available
Hearing Devices: Not Available
Sensory Friendly Performance: N/A
Production Sound Level: Comfortable volume level
Noises or Visuals to Prepare For: N/A
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