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Triumph of Love
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Zemenick, Ralston
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By Melinda Schupmann
Though love is only a little triumphant in International City Theatre's current production, there are some engaging characters and more than a little fun in this evening of period farce mixed with twentieth century sensibilities. Director Jules Aaron, whose grueling directorial schedule reaches far across the Southland, misses slightly in his staging, but the overall good humor of the work transcends a few of the stylistic problems.
Based on Pierre Marivaux's 18th century play, Triumph of Love manages to capture both the farcical elements so prized in Comedie and the poignancy of well-developed characterizations.
Mistaken identities, disguises, lovelorn characters, and bawdy double entendres comprise most of the story of a young woman who becomes a young man so she can be near her beloved. Actress Misty Cotton, simultaneously preparing for her role of Princess Leonide and closing the award-winning Sideshow at the Colony in which she played one half of Siamese twins, demonstrates her stamina in her physically demanding part. The object of her devotion, Agis (Damon Kirsche), is protected from any "outside" corruption by his spinster sister Hesione(Teri Ralston) and autocratic brother Hermocrates(Michael Zemenick). Providing ample comic energy are Harlequin (Wayne Scherzer,) Dimas the gardener (Michael Kostroff,) and Corine, Leonide's servant (Lisa Richard).
This production, which won raves in its New York run, has a fine pedigree. The book by James Magruder, music by Jeffrey Stock, and lyrics by Susan Birkenhead are clever and enhance the predictable storyline. The always busy Kay Cole choreographed.
Richard's witty Corine and Kostroff's Dimas added sparkle to the show, particularly in the "Mr. Right" number. Notable, too, was Ralston's "Serenity."
Strong voices, high energy and a likeable ensemble make this a pleasant interlude.
International City Theatre, Center Theater, Long Beach Performing Arts Center, 300 E. Ocean Blvd. 562-436-4619. Thurs-Sat at 8, Sun at 2. $23-60.
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