Written and directed by Marc P. Smith. Set designed by Richard Russell. Lighting Annmarie Duggan. Costumes by Ted Giammona. Music Director: Steven Bergman. Choreographer: Denise Day. With Natalie Brown, Stephen Murray, Deborah Stein, Mark S. Cartier, and Chip Phillips. At Foothills Theatre through February 25.
Sitting around WPI with absolutely nothing to do? Are you hungry for a taste of culture but think Worcester has nothing to offer? Then look again. A wonderful comedy called Backstage Confidential is just the thing you need. From now until February 25th, the Worcester Foothills Theatre Company will be performing this collage of skits which deal with theater life from the backstage point of view. Although most of the material presented in the skits isn't exactly innovative and totally original, it will get you rolling in the aisles.
The Foothill's small cast, under the direction of Marc P. Smith, pull off the portrayal of a multitude of different characters each designed to give the audience a sample of backstage life. A one man orchestra, Steven Bergman, provides vaudeville music to accompany the comedy for which the music is a great background. Woven in the skits, ranging from auditions to rehearsals to stage mothers, are Noel Coward songs which are sung by one character in relation to what is happening center stage.
The cast consisting of Natalie Brown, Stephen Murray, Mark S. Cartier, Chip Phillips, and Deborah Stein are energetic, invigorating, and captivating. The facial expressions of Carter alone could bring out a smile on even the most stuck-up audience member. They seem to love the play and in return the play seems to love them. As a result the performance overall is spectacular.
A few of the skits did seem to drag on a bit, but they had their moments, which were, in some cases, well worth the wait. The best part of the whole show was the ballet finale, which you will have to see for yourself. All I can say is that it's a riot. The introduction to the show also had a delightful and funny little twist. Among the best skits were "Box Office From Hell," "Movement Lesson," and "Understudy's Nightmare".
So, if you are in need of a good laugh, are looking for something to do on a weekend, or are just plain bored, stop by and see Backstage Confidential at the Foothills Theatre which is located on the first floor of the Worcester Common Fashion Outlets. I guarantee you won't regret spending the time or the money.
Student rush tickets are available 15 minutes prior to curtain if any seats are left. Shows are at 8pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays; 2pm on Thursdays and Sundays; 7pm on Sunday; and 5pm and 9pm on Saturdays. Tickets normally run $13 - $22 depending on when you go. Call the Box Office at 508-754-4018 for more information.
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