Date of a Lifetime; Laugh and Fall in Love with this Show

Two extraordinary actors, a remarkable script and impeccable direction make Date of a Lifetime a musical comedy hit. It is now being presented by New Jersey Repertory Company (NJ Rep) in Long Branch and Hat on a Hat LLC through April 6th. And,you won't find a better production this side of the Hudson River.

Directed and choreographed by Marlo Hunter with book and lyrics by Karl Kissin, music by Robert Baumgartner Junior, and musical direction by pianist, Daniel Rein, this team got it just right. Hilarious elements and sentimental touches develop the show's theme perfectly and the musical numbers fit in seamlessly.

The setting is a classic modern dating scenario. In the basement of New York City's "Symphony Space," another "Rotate at Eight" speed dating session is happening. Tech enthusiast, Marvin (Jamie LaVerdiere) meets career woman, Katie (Trish Rapier) with just minutes to communicate before moving on to the next "date." And, in those minutes, each one of them projects the possibility of a lifetime together with scenes that take the audience on two very different journeys; one from Marvin's perspective and the other from Katie's.

With ingenious staging and just a few props, you will be transported to a fusion restaurant, the couple's apartment, the Highline, Coney Island, and an art museum. This is a fast-paced production that uses New York City as a backdrop with Time Out New York's "Best of" lists, bustling subway rides and city park outings.

The abundant talents of LaVerdiere and Rapier are ideal for Date of a Lifetime. They have respective credits that range from major Broadway productions and beyond; the duo is in full command of this two-hander. They bring to the show the much needed chemistry to be alternatively romantic, funny, and at times, contentious.

LaVerdiere and Rapier's vocal talents are extraordinary and the bits of choreography that they master keep the play lively. Numbers like Marvin's tribute to parenthood, "A Redo of Marvin 2.0" or Katie's lament, "What's the Matter with Katie" are genuine and thoughtfully placed. Even Marvin's rendition of "WTF" has its spot, humorous yet pointed.

Date of a Lifetime is a show about love and longing and it is easy to relate to. As Kate and Marvin wade into the possibility of a relationship, they bring the audience right along with them. At one point, Marvin calls himself, "A renter of happiness, never an owner." Find out if this couple has a chance to own happiness. Gather your group and go, go now, to see Date of a Lifetime at NJ Rep.

Date of a Lifetime at New Jersey Repertory Company in Long Branch is showing from March 6th through April 6th on Thursdays and Fridays at 8pm; Saturdays at 3pm & 8pm; Sundays at 2pm and selected Sundays at 7pm from March 6 thru April 6. For tickets call 732-229-3166 or visit www.njrep.org.

Photo: Courtesy of New Jersey Repertory Company