Review: THE BRIDGES OF MADISON COUNTY at Players By The Sea

Players By the Sea presents The Bridges of Madison County. The story of an immigrant Italian woman, Francesca, who moves to Iowa and becomes a typical farm wife. Her world is turned upside down when a National Geographic photographer, Robert Kincaid, comes to her door to ask for directions. The topsy-turvy tale of romance, family, and heartache is an incredibly entertaining piece.

Our leading couple, Francesca (Erin Barnes) and Robert Kincaid (David Diehl) were an absolute treat. They captivated the audience in the most magnificent way. You could audibly hear the gasps and sighs as their crazy love affair unfolded. Their chemistry was undeniable and portrayed such raw emotion and love that was beautiful. Barnes and Kincaid were also extremely talented, encompassing beautiful voices individually, but were also beautiful together in their many duets.

Marge (Susan Roche) and Charlie (Del Austin) were also great entertainment to audiences. They had such great comedic timing as the elderly nosey neighbors. Any time they were on stage the audience knew they were in for a great laugh, from Roche looking through binoculars at her neighbors or Austin coming in a little behind in the town gossip. They really played the part of the sweet, but nosey elderly couple well.

Other characters to mention are Carolyn (Kaylee Hendry) and Michael (John Flannagan), Francesca's children. Hendry and Flannagan had great sibling chemistry, annoying one another and tattling on one another just as every sibling can relate to. Each also had incredible voices. The second I heard Hendry's voice I immediately was blown away by how pure and beautiful it was. Marian (Lexi Inks), the ex-wife of Robert, was absolutely phenomenal. Her solo portrayed so much emotion and regret after leaving her husband. The entire ensemble worked so well together, from setting up the next scenes, to dancing and singing together, every actor really showed great talent.

The musical is wonderfully entertaining, heartbreaking, and moving. The Bridges of Madison County will be at Players By The Sea now through February 16.