Once again Owosso Community Theatre has put together a knockout musical under the masterful direction of Garrett Bradley. No fun lightweight, “family show” this time, it’sCABARET, a Kander and Ebb classic that has become too relevant to issues we still face today. It reminded me a little of the ongoing “Indecent” at Peppermint Creek (last shows tonight and tomorrow http://www.peppermintcreek.org) since both are infused with the looming holocaust.
The entire Lebowsky theatre has been redesigned to make the audience part of the Kit Kat Club. Garrett says they have “constructed more walls staircases, platforms and railings than ever before." The lighting is dim and there’s a pervasive slight smoke/haze to create that decadent atmosphere. Be sure to come early and enjoy the preshow songs and dancers up on the side balconies. A portion of the audience sits right up on the stage.
The charming but saturnine presence of Adam Woolsey as The Emcee haunts and energizes the entire show with style, charm and menace. Megan Mitchell shines in the difficult role of the troubled Sally Bowles, ricocheting around the aspiring writer Cliff, growing in awareness of the political climate, and conflicted about his sexuality - well played by Sam Sommer. Anna Owens and Bill Henson broke our hearts as the adorable, senior lovers, doomed by the exigencies of the rising Nazi threat. The entire cast and ensemble dancers were excellent. And the ending was a memorable exclamation point.
This look at Germany during the rise of Hitler is an entertaining yet powerful show that challenges our humanity. Again, from Garrett’s Director’s Note. “You are about to a see how different people react to similar circumstances. Some with fear, some with understanding of the future some with the faith that everything will be just fine, and others with wild abandon or apathy.”
Don’t miss this tragic powerhouse of a musical. It will entertain you and make you think. Cabaret continues through June 23.
More info and tickets at http://www.owossoplayers.com