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Hernando Today

'Seven Brides for Seven Brothers' a fresh and exuberant production

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By MARSHA REINIERS

Hernando Today correspondent

Published: January 14, 2010

HUDSON - HUDSON Some of the older classic musicals can lose something in translation through the years, but "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers," playing at Show Palace Dinner Theatre in Hudson, is fresh, exuberant, charming, funny, and sweetly sentimental.

Of course, it is a little bit hokey, but that is what makes it so endearing. And under the direction of Susan Haldeman, along with musical director, Michael Ursua, this production positively exudes perfection.

And what a way to kick off the 2010 theatre season. With a stellar cast of 28, anchored by two phenomenal actors, Christopher Sanders as Adam Pontipee, the oldest brother, and Sarah Arikian as his spunky bride, Milly, this is probably one of the best shows ever to grace the stage at Show Palace.

Set Designer Tom Hansen's gorgeous painted backdrops of lush mountain valleys, snow covered peaks, and even a white chapel that appears to be three dimensional are genius.

Add roll-on set pieces, along with the authentic cabin and barn, and a fabulous cast wearing Costume Designer Angela D. Hoerner's imaginative vibrant pioneer attire, combined with stunning jaw dropping choreography by Chris and Shanna Sell, and you have a spectacular show.

Finding a wife in Oregon in 1850 was no easy feat, as there were 10 men to one woman. Oldest brother Adam decides to go into town and bring back a wife to help out on his mountain cabin farm, and keep order among his six brothers.

He turns on the charm just long enough to convince Milly, the town waitress, to cast caution to the wind and marry this stranger the very same day.

Of course, Milly didn't realize she would be sharing the cabin with Adam's six uncouth brothers. She sets about trying to civilize them as she coaches them in manners in the delightful "Goin Courtin."

They all go into town and show off their new dancing prowess in "Social Dance," where the entire cast does some pretty elaborate dance moves. Each brother pairs off with a local girl, but must contend with the jealous town boyfriends.

Casting Sanders as big, brawny Adam was a stroke of genius, as is Arikian as Milly. Sanders deep baritone velvet voice is unforgettable, and he knows how to milk every emotion with his voice.

Although a mountain of a man, he commands the stage with more than just his presence. He can be cocky, loud and boisterous in "Bless Your Beautiful Hide," but then draws out every ounce of sweetness vocally, when he and Milly sing "Wonderful, Wonderful Day."

Arikian is equally as impressive. She is superb as the spunky wife who takes control of every situation. Her rich voice is impressive as well, as in "One Man," and the chemistry between these two characters is very evident.

When Arikian hits the high note in "Love Never Goes Away," as my friend commented, "It was worth waiting for."

The six brothers are absolutely sensational. Their transformation into civilized men is a pleasure to watch.

Patrick McGee as Gideon, the youngest brother, has all the innocence and earnestness of a young boy in love. He holds his own with Sanders as they sing "A Woman Ought to Know Her Place."

A show highlight is the trio of Sanders, Arikian and McGee singing "Love Never Goes Away."

David Tanciar as Ephraim, has astounding ballet jumps that will surprise you.

Broadway veteran Timothy Ellis as Benjamin is impressive, as is John Henderson as Caleb.

Eric Hensley as Daniel and Michael Hildebrandt as Frank are also exceptional. These guys can be sweet and goofy all at the same time, as evidenced by "Going Courtin."

The six brides and their suitors are also well cast, with gorgeous voices and spot on dance moves.

The brides, singing with Milly, "Glad that You Were Born," as she sings to her new baby daughter, was especially sweet.

This kind of musical can be very sappy, but in the hands of this ultra talented cast of singers and dancers, "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" is fresh and entertaining.

There is nothing not to like about this show. I could get picky and say that the furniture in the cabin is too nice for a frontier cabin, or that the baby basket looked out of place and probably should be replaced with an authentic cradle, but those are petty criticisms.

If this show is any indication of the caliber of upcoming shows for the season, don't waste time — reserve your seats now.

"Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" runs through Feb. 21 at the Show Palace Dinner Theatre, 16128 U. S. 19, in Hudson.

Doors open two hours before each show for dinner and cocktails. On Sundays, the doors open at 1 p.m. and show starts at 3 p.m. Friday and Saturday night performances begin at 8 p. m., and doors open for dinner and cocktails at 6 p.m. Matinees are available on Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday and doors open for dinner and cocktails at 11:30 a.m. and shows start at 1:15 p.m.. Tickets are $46, plus tax for dinner and show. Show only is $34.95 plus tax. Children 12 or younger, $28.45 or 23.45 for show only. Call 727-863-7949 or 888-655-7469 to reserve tickets.

Marsha Reiniers writes regularly for the Hernando Today Out & About section. She can be contacted at Marsha@LTC-FLA.com.

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