BWW Reviews: Pioneer Theatre Company's THE MUSIC MAN is Nostalgic and Satisfying

Pioneer Theatre Company brings a heightened reality and nostalgia to the classic musical THE MUSIC MAN in its satisfying new production.

THE MUSIC MAN (book, music, and lyrics by Meredith Willson; story by Meredith Willson and Franklin Lacey) is the well-known tale of con man Harold Hill, who stops in a small Iowa town with the intent to hoodwink its residents by promising to start a boys' band. He does not anticipate, however, that his run-in with the local piano teacher, Marian Paroo, will change everything.

The chemistry between Broadway actors George Dvorsky as Harold Hill and Lizzie Klemperer as Marian Paroo is not quite substantial enough for the audience to truly buy into their budding romance. However, their individual performances are superb. Dvorsky brings non-stop energy to his interpretation of the character. His Harold Hill is a smooth operator but also isn't afraid to put his heart on his sleeve. Klemperer is a budding star with shimmering personality and vocals. We are sure to see more of her on the Broadway boards.

Another highlight of the cast is Broadway transplant Garett Hawe (NEWSIES original cast) as alleged troublemaker Tommy Djilas. His dancing and acting draw attention in all the right ways.

Many talented local actors are strong contributors to the great cast, including Mary Fanning Driggs as Mrs. Paroo and Wally Inkley as her son, Winthrop (double cast with Mason Shanks). Pioneer Theatre Company favorites Max Robinson as Mayor Shinn and Anne Stewart Mark as his wife, Eulalie, are perfectly cast and deliver everything you'd want from their characters.

Director and choreographer Karen Azenberg deftly helms the production with creative musical staging, bold choreography, and heartfelt scene work. She conjures a heightened reality that complements the piece well.

Costume designer K.L. Alberts evokes the period with accurate historical detail while also applying lovely color schemes that maintain the heightened reality invoked by the staging.

Additional great work comes from scenic designer George Maxwell, hair and makeup designer Amanda French, sound designer Joshua Hight, and the brilliant orchestra, led by musical director Michael Rice.

THE MUSIC MAN plays through May 16, 2015. For tickets, call the box office at 801-581-6961 or visit www.pioneertheatre.org.

Photo Credit: L-R Lizzie Klemperer (Marian Paroo) and George Dvorsky (Harold Hill). Photo by Alexander Weisman.

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