Bonnie & Clyde
Music by Frank Wildhorn
Lyrics by Don Black
Audience Rating: MA (Mature Audiences) Not recommended for children.
Running Time: Just over 2 hours and 30 minutes including a 15-minute intermission
Accessible Seating: Available
Hearing Devices Available: Not available
Sensory-friendly Showing: Not available
ASL Showing: Not available
Production Sound/Lighting Level: Comfortable
Noises and Visuals to Prepare For: Strong language, adult situations, violence, gun shots, death, flashing lights
Reviewed by Eddy Herring
Bonnie & Clyde is the story of two young people with big dreams, ambition, and a drive to do whatever they need to in order to achieve those dreams. Clyde idolizes the outlaws of the time, and Bonnie dreams of becoming a Hollywood star. When the two opposites meet and fall in love, there is just enough fuel to propel them into a direction of fame for which neither was really looking, leading to a fast and dangerous journey of survival.
Director Natalie Burkhart has assembled a very able and talented cast to take us on the ride. If you have never seen a show at Upright, the performance space is very intimate and the audience is seated at small four-top tables. Although not the typical theatre set up, Upright does a fantastic job of utilizing the entire space. There are several scenes in the show where Burkhart has the actors surrounding the audience, immersing the viewers into the action and sound. And speaking of sound, the music and mics were perfectly balanced, and you could clearly hear every word spoken or sung.
Music Director Noel Clark did an amazing job of blending this cast of superstar singers. I was very impressed with the quality of each vocal performance, especially with the larger group numbers. Coupled with choreography by Whitney Morris, the musical numbers were clever and filled the stage. Costumes by Megan A. Lyles were perfect for the time. And scenic designer Katie Cooley has created a simple yet perfect set that is rustic and reminiscent of the Great Depression era.
Shaun Senter (Clyde) and Mary Ridenour (Bonnie) gave flawless vocal performances. Their chemistry was palpable, and there is a perfect balance of tension and passion between the two that made their scenes even more believable. Both have incredibly strong and controlled voices, clear and full of emotion. I was completely drawn into their relationship, and each of their vocals gave me goose bumps. Very well done!
Lorezo Gapud (Buck) and Taylor Fujihara (Blanche) shared great chemistry and strong vocals throughout. Buck is brother to Clyde and shares in the desire to challenge the law, and they have some great scenes together, as well as, a couple of very powerful duets. Sweet Blanche runs a beauty shop and tries desperately to keep her Buck from following his brother to no avail. There is a particularly fun song in the shop with Blanche and three friends that shows off their vocal talents and cute chair choreography.
The remainder of the large supporting cast is strong and each has a moment to shine. One standout for me was Rickie Jones as the Preacher, who took us to church! His smooth, soulful voice filled the room, and all eyes were fixed on him. Bravo Mr. Jones!
If you haven’t seen Bonnie & Clyde, this is a great production that will not disappoint. The show runs through June 15, and performances are Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 pm and Sunday matinees at 3:00 pm. Tickets can be purchased online at https://www.uprighttheatre.org/
Do yourself a favor…take a friend or two and do not miss this show!
Go See the Show!
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