This review has been reposted courtesy of the League of Cincinnati Theatres. For more LCT reviews click here to visit their reviews page.
If you like 1950’s music sung with 1950’s women’s quartets and enough plot to make it a musical instead of a concert, you will like THE MARVELOUS WONDERETTES at the Covedale. The 4-women ensemble consisting of Kate Elliott, Grace Eichler, Lauren Carr and Blair Godshall sing, dance and act well enough to provide an entertaining evening out of pretty thin material. The first act of the show is about four high school seniors at their 1958 prom who have been asked to provide the entertainment by creating a girl singing ensemble called the Marvelous Wonderettes. The second act shows the four women 10 years later at their high school reunion and we find out what has happened to each in the meantime. Their stories are told through their songs including 1950’s and 1960’s pop songs such as “Mr. Sandman”, “Lollipop”, “Dream Lover”, “It’s my Party” and “You Don’t Own Me”. The harmonies improved as the night progressed, plagued somewhat by early miking issues. The singers have powerful voices and I’m sure it will improve. The choreography is simple yet typical of the female (and male) groups of the day. The set is typical 1950’s high school gym/stage with a basketball scoreboard, a stage at the back and minutiae such as graffiti on the wall. This show is not Shakespeare but it is fun, entertaining and energetic led by a captivating and talented cast. It’s Wonderette enough. And, going to the Covedale is always a treat.
For more information on the production, click here.
Behind the Curtain Cincinnati 