Copacabana

Barry Manilow’s Copacabana does not have one of the easiest storylines to follow. I saw it many years ago and I failed to grasp that the story, is really a dream, set in the mind of the main character Stephen, a songwriter. All I could remember was big sets, magnificent costumes and the song. I was therefore somewhat surprise to find out that the company had chosen to produce this show and was eager to see how their new, young and very enthusiastic first time director, would make it fit on to the Barrington theatre’s stage.

He made a great start by trying to create a night club atmosphere in the auditorium. Leaving room in front of the stage for the performers, the front row was set around decorated tables with drink and nibbles available. It was a very nice touch that worked well. Given the size of the audience on the night I attend, the whole auditorium could have been set up, so that everyone had a table, which would have created a fuller effect.

Without a doubt the leading man Jason Harris (Stephen) was outstanding throughout and the other major roles were all excellent, with some superb comedy from Gladys and Sam. Musical Director Lee Redwood, on keyboard, produced an excellent sounding orchestra and the lighting was used to great effect.

“The Andrea Knowles school of Dance” provided a very good team of Copa and Tropicana dancers, although several did look a little too young.

I thought overall, that the show was very enjoyable and worked very well on the Barrington Stage. However I felt that night club scenes could have had more sparkle, the costumes, although very bright, did not meet expectations. Although I appreciate that there may have been budget restrictions

Unfortunately some members of the chorus did not seem to fit in with the illusion that the production team had created, several were clearly unsure of their words during the chorus numbers, and one or two of the cast, who were playing minor roles, really looked uncomfortable and out of their depth.

It was a wonderful evening, and credit must be given to company, for having such a talented, young, creative, production team.

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