I took my dad to see “The Marvelous Wonderettes” at the Ensemble Theatre in Cincinnati. I knew my dad was the perfect person to bring when I saw his eyes light up as I read the description of the show.
Here is the description from the show that I read to my dad.
“Crisp colors, hefty hairspray, and puffy petticoats galore! The Wonderettes return in the regional premiere of The Marvelous Wonderettes: Caps and Gowns, the highly anticipated sequel to Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati’s best selling show of all time. Written by Roger Bean, the play continues the story of these four girls, first introduced to Cincinnati during ETC’s 2009-2010 season and again with Winter Wonderettes. Caps and Gowns plays May 1-19, 2013 and is directed by D. Lynn Meyers.
John Goering is the Premiere Sponsor, and Judith Postler is the Design Sponsor.
Spanning the decade between 1958 and 1968, Cindy Lou, Betty Jean, Missy, and Suzy are high school seniors who begin the play on their graduation day. The girls recap their years spent at Springfield High by leading the school in some favorite tunes such as “Rockin’ Robin” and “Dedicated to the One I Love.”
Act two finds the group reunited ten years later, more mature but still the best of friends. The singing continues as the girls share in the joys and difficulties they have faced since high school. Featuring over thirty classic ‘50s and ‘60s songs, this upbeat comedy follows the Wonderettes’ captivating journey into adulthood.”
“The idea of The Marvelous Wonderettes: Caps & Gowns is about a celebration of a time and a celebration of the music,” says ETC Producing Artistic Director D. Lynn Meyers. “The Wonderettes are four very different American girls embracing a dream that brings them together. When you see an old picture, you never get to know what the subjects are thinking,” she continues. “The show is like living a photograph out loud.”
Basically, when he found out that the music was from his high school years, he became very interested in being my guest. This show was his time period and his music.
You never know who you could be sitting next to when you are at the Ensemble Theatre. I just happened to be seated next to Torie Wiggins * who was one of the main actors in Black Pearl Sings!
She did a fantastic job and you can read more about her performance here.
Ok, so back to the show.
The stage was set to really take you back to that late 50’s/early 60’s time period but each of the actors had traits that you could recognize from any time period.
My favorite character from the show was Suzy, played by Brooke Rucidlo Steele. (She is on the right side)
Her character was ditzy and really fun to watch.
The other actors each had really great moments where they got to really shine too.
All of them have great voices and harmonized beautifully together.
The production has a lot of songs that are lighthearted and fun to watch. My dad was so impressed by the talent level and had so much fun hearing songs that brought back memories from his high school years. You don’t have to be my dad’s generation to enjoy the show. This is a family friendly show that all ages can enjoy.
You can see “The Marvelous Wonderettes” at the Ensemble Theatre now until June 1st!
Performances:Tues-Thurs at 7:30 pm; Fri & Sat at 8:00 pm; Sat & Sun at 2:00 pm
Half-Price Rush Tickets: All remaining tickets for the current day’s performance(s) are available two hours prior to each showtime for half-price (discount does not apply to senior or children’s tickets) when purchasing by phone or in person.
$15 Student Rush Tickets: Students may purchase up to two $15 student rush tickets two hours prior to show time with valid student I.D. Available in person only.
AAA, ArtsWave Fun Card, Cincinnati Public Radio Perks Card, Military/Educator and ETA discounts available. Group discounts available for 10+. Complete details available at www.ensemblecincinnati.org.
The Ensemble Theatre is located at 1127 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Parking:
Parking for all performances is available directly across the theatre at the surface lot and Gateway Garage, both at the corner of 12th and Vine Streets. Parking also available at the Washington Park Garage, accessible via Race or Elm Street.
Disclosure: I was given complimentary tickets for review purposes. All opinions are my own.
