Review by Katrina “Kat” Reynolds. THIS IS TOM JONES! presented by Human Race Theatre Company through September 24th. I attended the opening Sunday matinee.
The cast of THIS IS TOM JONES! (along with playwright Mark Brown).
I often find myself telling Cincinnati-area theatre lovers that the trip up to Dayton to see a show by The Human Race Theatre Company is well worth it. And after this past weekend, I will continue to insist upon it. (Bonus: The Loft Theatre where they perform is directly next to a Pizzeria Uno. Do what you will with that information.)
This month, HRTC is giving us a world premiere musical: This is Tom Jones! with book, lyrics, and music by Mark Brown as well as music by Paul Mirkovich. As much as I do not wish to provide spoilers, there is one important thing to know right off the bat: Nope, it’s not about THAT Tom Jones. The show can be described in brief as “Henry Fielding’s heart-throbbing masterpiece meets the frenzied, mop-top sounds of the 1960s” – aka the British Invasion. Add in Music Direction by Cincinnati’s own Steve Goers (who also leads the incredibly talented band) and you have yourself a rollicking good time.
Director Emily N. Wells does an excellent job giving the audience an energetic, fast-paced run through the story of our titular character with lightning-fast costume (and accent) changes. Isabella Meyers is listed as the Run Crew, but the word from inside sources is that three amazing people are backstage to assist the artists in making the character changes seamless (and they are indeed seamless). Bravx to these backstage helpers!
Scenic Designer Tamara L. Honesty and Costume Designer Janet G. Powell both have their work cut out for them and, fortunately, they both slayed their assignments. Keep an eye on the set: there are surprises which should not be ruined by a review. In addition, costumes are cleverly buildable and just plain old fantastic.
The group of nine actors (who end up playing a total of…hell, I lost count) is a true ensemble in every sense of the word. It is nearly impossible to choose a standout as every single one of them has fun moments to offer. The cast, including some more Cincinnati favourites, features Patrick Earl Phillips as Man 1; Sara Mackie as Woman 1; Edwin Large as Man 2; Kelly Mengelkoch as Woman 2; Eb Madson is Man 3; Aleah Vassell is Woman 3; Kyle Mangold as Man 4; Melinda Porto as Woman 4; and Jamie Cordes as Man 5. Comedic timing and strong vocals are a must for this show and each artist in this cast has such gifts and then some. One special note: I was particularly impressed by the beautiful way the voices of Ms. Mengelkoch and Ms. Porto sounded when they sang together – smooth as silk and sweet as molasses. Well done!
Per the HRTC site, this show is recommended if you like Austin Powers, The Full Monty, and Avenue Q. These are good guidelines as the humour is strong and bawdy while remaining smart. In addition, the music is well-written and the vocalists emit chills. While the band can run a wee bit hot, the sound balance seems to get corrected relatively quickly.
In summary, a ridiculously enjoyable musical (there IS such a thing!) with strong comedic chops that will have you smiling the entire way through. This is Tom Jones! can be enjoyed at The Loft Theatre through September 24th. Please click here for more information and plan your trip to Dayton now!
*Special thanks to Kappy Kilburn for allowing us at Behind the Curtain Cincinnati to enjoy this soon-to-be classic.*
Click here for more information on the production.
Behind the Curtain Cincinnati 