Dear Jack, Dear Louise

When two strangers meet by letter during World War II, a love story begins. U.S. Army Captain Jack Ludwig, a military doctor stationed in Oregon, begins writing to Louise Rabiner, an aspiring actress and dancer in New York City, hoping to meet her someday if the war will allow. But as the war continues, it threatens to end their relationship before it even starts.

From the moment I stepped into the studio, I felt like I was transported back to the 1940s, right in the middle of World War II.  The attention to detail was incredible - every prop, every piece of lighting, and every costume perfectly captured the era.  I absolutely loved all the hand written letters and felt the black & white photo of Jack on Louise’s desk was such an evocative touch.

The sound and lighting throughout the production was spot on, working together perfectly to bring the story to life.  The sound effects were precise and immersive, effectively transporting the audience to the various settings.  The lighting was simple but effective and really helped set the mood for each scene. Warm, soft lights made the intimate moments feel cozy and personal, while brighter lights highlighted the more dramatic parts of the story.

The onstage relationship between Jack and Louise was engaging and heartfelt with every emotional moment being delivered with sensitivity and grace.  The clarity and precision of their dialogue ensured that every word was heard, allowing the emotional nuances of the letters exchanged between them to resonate deeply within the audience.  I was absolutely absorbed from the offset and captivated by the developing relationship between the characters.

Jack's performance was outstanding, with an amazing American accent that never faltered throughout the whole performance.  His facial expressions and the progression of his character were compelling, making his portrayal both believable and engaging. Jack's dedication to these details made his performance charming and authentic.  A warm, sensitive and well executed performance.

Louise’s performance was beautifully portrayed and was both positive and emotionally charged.  Her delivery was vibrant and engaging, capturing the listener’s attention right from the start.  Louise’s emotional range was well executed and her fantastic American accent throughout added depth and a sincerity to her words.  She managed to convey enthusiasm and warmth, making the narrative feel personal and relatable.   An excellent, confident and empathetic performance.

The Dixie Belles delivered an exceptional performance that added a smooth, polished touch to the play. Their harmonies were tight and blended seamlessly. Their professionalism was evident in every aspect of their performance, from their precise vocal control to their engaging stage presence. The Dixie Belles' provided a delightful auditory experience that left a lasting impression on all who attended.

Hilary Quinlan's direction brought this heartfelt narrative to life on stage, infusing it with authenticity and emotional depth.  Through Hilary’s direction, the audience experienced the joy, longing, and hope shared by Jack and Louise.  Well Done Hilary - I absolutely adored your vision and execution of this heartwarming production. 

The production was excellent overall, meeting a high standard of quality.  I really enjoyed it and thought the cast and crew did an amazing job - You should all be so proud of yourselves.. Congratulations.

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