Review: Andrew Lippa's WILD PARTY at SoLuna

Based on Joseph Moncure March's 1928 narrative poem of the same name, the story follows Queenie portrayed by Whitney Stone. Queenie is young, beautiful... and cannot find a man to fulfil her. She then meets Burrs, a woman chasing vaudevillian, portrayed by SoLuna vet Andrew Murano. Burrs is really rough with her and, initially, she finds that exciting. However, now it scares her. In an effort to reconnect (and to publically hurt Burrs), Queenie suggests a huge party. She ends up learning a few things about herself and meets a man, Mr. Black, excellently portrayed by Mark Maurice, who falls for her.

Ms. Stone and Mr. Murano are wonderful in their respective roles. Ms. Stone's Queenie is strong yet her vulnerability is apparent as displayed in the number "Maybe I Like it This Way". Mr. Murano's Burrs is as unlikeable as he needs to be; blatantly flirting with other women in front of Queenie, literally twisting her arm, and even attempts to rape her. Both are fine performances as is Mr. Maurice's. The entire company is truly outstanding with seemingly each cast member having a moment to shine throughout the two acts.

Megan Pietroforte's set is relevant and well done. Taking place in the apartment of Queenie and Burrs, a bed stands in the corner - most of the time- with a couch and seats sprawled about. Of course, there is also a bar on stage... this is a party, folks! Everything is enhanced handsomely by Ms. Pietroforte's lighting and Ms. Braun's roaring 20's costumes she coordinated with SoLuna staple Nick Caron.

And so, Andrew Lippa's Wild Party is indeed another hit for SoLuna Studio. You'll almost sense this production is best executed in this type of forum; an intimate venue focusing on the actors. At the end of the day, a fabulous cast makes for a wonderful night of theatre.

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