Finian's Rainbow

Off-Broadway at the Irish Repertory Theatre


How Are Things in Glocca Morra you ask?  Well let me tell you that things are just perfect. Exquisite direction by Charlotte Moore, a beautiful score by Burton Lane along with this magnificent cast carry this production over the devil moon and beyond the rainbow. 

The moment you enter the Irish Repertory Theatre you feel as though you have your own part in this magical fairy tale.  The stationary set by James Morgan is warm and inviting from the checked floor to the moss draped trees, climbing vines, and colorful blooms.    The small orchestra is set in the rear of the stage, with a harp prominently set in the center.  The background papered in sheet music adds to the whimsical theme.

In this fairy tale two worlds meet when Finian (Ken Jennings) and his daughter Sharon (Melissa Errico) flee Ireland to find a new and better life in the United States, more specifically the Rainbow Valley of Missatucky.   Finian has “borrowed” a Leprechaun's pot of gold with the belief that he can plant it in a new land and become a millionaire.   When they arrive they find themselves in the middle of a land dispute.   It’s good  vs. evil as Senator Rawkins (Dewey Caddell)  and his flunkies, Buzz (Matt Gibson)  and the Sheriff  (Peyton Crim) try  everything to take the land of Susan (Lyrica Woodruff).   Susan cannot speak, but rather dances her words.  She is surrounded by a loving group of harmonizing  sharecroppers that include our hero Woody (Ryan Silverman), 3 Gospeleer’s  (William Bellamy, Ramone Owens and Kyle TaylorParker) , Lily May (Kimberly Doreen Burns) and Sally Ann (Angela Grovey).   It’s important to understand that this is a group of mixed race  because in the 1947 deep south, it was illegal for blacks and whites to live together and  this becomes a time relevant lesson in social consciousness.   Of course evil never wins on or off Broadway,  and  it’s a happy ending in the Rainbow Valley as they  find love, hope and dreams  that really do come true.

Melissa Errico is visually and acoustically stunning.  She seems to have not only found the pot of gold, but the fountain of youth.  She glimmers in this role and brings the music alive with her divine vibrato.  Ryan Silverman is equally impressive in voice, charm and good looks and Ken Jennings makes for a perfect Finian.  Mark Evans, plays  a most adorable  lanky Leprechaun that will sing and dance his mortal soul into your heart.   The fact is that every member of this delightful cast adds something special.  It’s like they all stepped out of your favorite storybook. 

Despite the small stage,  Barry McNabb manages to put some colorful  choreography into the mix.  The dances are beautifully executed with special recognition to Lyrica Woodruff,  the very light on her feet silent Susan.
 
Whatever is happening on this stage, I promise you are going to enjoy it immensely.  Performances are selling out quickly,  but the run has been extended until December 31st.  For tickets and more information click here  -Thisbroadsway 11/17/16