2 PIANOS, 4 HANDS presented by Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park through Jan. 5. I attended the opening night performance.
Matthew McGloin as Richard as & Jefferson McDonald as Ted. Photo by Mikki Schaffner Photography.
“How do I get to Carnegie Hall?”
“Practice.”
In 2 PIANOS, 4 HANDS, the story follows two classical pianists from their beginning lessons through their interviews to join prestigious college music programs. Along the way we meet frustrated teachers, domineering parents and exacting college interviewers.
Matthew McGloin as Richard as & Jefferson McDonald as Ted. Photo by Mikki Schaffner Photography.
The two actors (Jefferson McDonald as Ted and Matthew McGloin as Richard) are talented pianists and performers with great comic timing. The duo enjoy a fun rapport and slip into multiple characters as easily as they slide behind the piano. The comedy hits home even more strongly for anyone who has taken music lessons.
Tom Frey does double duty as director and music director for the show, keeping the pacing strong between the short scenes and the musical performances. With seating on four sides, the set is simply two angled Steinway pianos. James Sale’s colorful lighting design sets the mood and defines the transitions between the multiple vignettes.
Thank you Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park for an enjoyable evening of laughter and classical music.
My rating: 4.5 out of 5.
Click here for more information on the production.
Behind the Curtain Cincinnati 