Review: 'bare' at Hart House Theatre

It is the emotions that are laid bare in the pop opera bare, currently receiving its Canadian premiere courtesy of the newly minted Waters Edge Productions.  Director Brian Waters has seen to it that the show is exceptionally well executed and the cast did not let some sound problems mar their opening night performance. 

Sound is frequently a problem in Hart House Theatre, which was designed for concerts and unamplified plays. A modern rock score presents enormous challenges to the sound mixer, and it took most of the first act for the balance between singers and musicians to right itself. It perhaps would have been better to have had a few preview performances before officially opening, but the show otherwise was in terrific shape at the premiere.

The story is set in St. Cecilia’s boarding school where the students are attempting a rock opera based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The Romeo in this production, Jason, while trying to keep up an image of being straight is involved in a love affair with his roommate Peter. Peter is ready to come out to friends and family but Jason is not.

The show raises questions of how teens reconcile powerful new feelings of sexuality that run counter to the strict teachings of the church. The students are portrayed as being far more interested in sex, drugs and rock‘n’roll than in the theological teachings, which leads to tragic consequences.

As the central pair, Peter and Jason, Wade Muir and Graham Parkhurst create sparks together from their first number where their embraces are constantly being interrupted by the sudden appearance of other students. Both have strong voices although better enunciation would help ensure the wordy lyrics come across more clearly.

Nicola Lawrence as Sister Chantelle comes near to stopping the show with her second act numbo “God Don’t Make No Trash.” It certainly roused the opening night audience with its fervour. The leads are given terrific support by the 16-member ensemble and by Chris Tsujiuchi’s onstage band.  The scenic designs by Nikki Tamlin and Brian Waters give a general idea of the location while leaving the stage open for the cast to execute the lively choreography of Michele Shuster. 

bare raises some interesting questions and does not provide easy answers. Though the book occasionally dips to the level of TV soap operas and the music sometimes lacks variety, the performances help carry this production. Be advised that this is an adult show and while the producers do not allow kids under the age of 12, the age limit really should be 16. 

The musical bare continues at Hart House Theatre until Saturday August 1. Performances are Wednesday through Saturday at 8 pm with matinees on Saturdays at 2 pm. Tickets arec$35 and may be purchased at www.uofttix.ca or by calling the box office: (416) 978-8849.

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Best Direction of a Musical - Top 3

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