Putting It Together at PTC

I like to call myself a big fan of Stephen Sondheim but the truth of the matter is the only shows that I am really familiar with are West Side Story, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, and Into the Woods. I have seen A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum but it was a long time ago and I don't remember much (beyond the togas) and I am embarrassed to admit that I haven't seen Sunday in the Park with George, Merrily We Roll Along, A Little Night Music, Follies, Assassins, Anyone Can Whistle, or Company (I will be remedying this very soon). I was, therefore, really excited to see PTC's new production of Putting It Together, a musical revue showcasing the works of Stephen Sondheim, last night because it features many songs from these other shows. A concert consisting of Sondheim's music would be worth the price of admission on its own but there is a loose narrative tying it all together (and a set featuring a luxury penthouse apartment, glamorous costumes, and fun choreography) involving a dinner party with a Husband (Nicholas Rodriguez) and Wife (Judy McLane), who are experiencing marital difficulties, a Young Associate (Brent Thiessen) and His Date (Cayleigh Capaldi), who are awkwardly navigating a new relationship, and an Observer (Tyrick Wiltez Jones), who narrates the goings-on. I particularly enjoyed the dynamic between McLane (I absolutely loved her in Next to Normal which is one of my favorite productions at PTC) and Rodriguez in "Country House" from Follies and the harmonies between McLane and Capaldi in "There's Always a Woman" from Anyone Can Whistle because I had never heard those songs before.  However, my favorite numbers were McLane's version of "The Ladies Who Lunch" because she just about blew the roof off the theater, Thiessen's heartfelt rendition of "Marry Me A Little," McLane's hilarious take on "Getting Married Today," and the entire cast's incredible performance of "Being Alive," all from Company. The theater was only about 2/3 full last night which is really a shame because it was an amazing evening of music performed by an insanely talented cast! I highly recommend it to everyone (go here for tickets) because those who are fans of Sondheim will love it and those who are not just might become ones after seeing it!

Note:  As I mentioned, I will be attending a performance of Company at the Empress Theatre next month and I am even more excited for it after seeing this show!