I thought maybe the new, outdoor venue would tamp down the usual lofty production values of Lebowsky Center Players in Owosso, but no. Head Over Heels was top-notch in every way: acting, singing, set, sound system, costumes, musicians, choreography — and lighting that included special effects from an approaching thunderstorm in the background of the lovely, outdoor venue at Fortitude Farms. This two hour delight was blessed to fit between 8pm when the sun dipped behind the set, and the eventual deluge thunderstorm which challenged our drive home.
Head Over Heels is a sort of classic spoof complete with an oracle (the fabulous Brennan Hattaway) a pompous king (Quentin Brainard) a fed-up queen (Sabrina Dahlgran), a saucy maid (Meghan Corbett), and fretful servant (Michael Windnagle) two diverse daughters deigning to deny/pursue suitors (Rachael Cupples and Isa Rodriguez) and a shepherd who becomes very much more than that (the versatile Adam Woolsey.) Can they save Arcadia from loss of “the beat”?
ALL lead actors were superb, along with the chorus and the amazing dancers. Kudos to director Garrett Bradley and his choreographer sister Erica Bradley, Music Director Patrick Christians, Vocal Director Rachael Cupples, set designers Josh Holliday and Dirk Rennick, stage managed by Amy Brainard and Dana Clark.
The show is billed as a “modern musical fairy tale” but note that it is tastefully bawdy, and also lesbian-positive… which might deter some from bringing young children or conservative adults. The iconic 80’s girl-band Go-Go’s music gives it that irrepressible juke box energy.
Head Over Heels continues - not Thursday - but Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 8 (moved from the original 7:30 due to that aforementioned sunset angle, I imagine.) Fortitude Farms is easy to find, directly off M-52, on your way to Owosso.
Book tickets at https://lebowskycenter.com/2021-outdoor-summer-productions/