But what do you know? Theatre synergy worked its magic and the show was solid and earnest and well received by an almost full house at Delta Presbyterian Church. (Starlight plans to return to food service at their usual location at Waverly Intermediate School for this March show, Over the River and Through the Woods.)
The church location necessitated a simple set of mostly furniture whisked in and out behind black flats by speedy cast and crew. A projection screen helped with slides and occasional video. Credit to Jim Lorenz (set construction/designer/light and sound), Bob Gehrls (special stagecraft), and Darryl Schmitz (prerecorded audio/video).
Kudos to David Brooks for taking on the directing task at the last minute. Producer Linda Granger says, “He was a real hands-on director, thorough and always handled situations with kindness and class.” The cast of fourteen — eleven new to Starlight — took on 36 roles in this classic, complex tale.
Mark Polzin bravely tackled the multi-faceted role of George Bailey and Stephanie Spagnuolo Vosburgh was the warm, charming, concerned love of his life, Mary. (You may remember them as the young doctor and pretty nurse in Harvey last year. Will they audition to play opposite each other in the next show? Stay tuned…)
Douglas Foy was convincing as the formidable villain, Henry Potter. Paul Levandowski was endearingly wry as angel Clarence, working to earn his wings by helping distraught George. Mark Bethea was the benevolent but bumbling Uncle Billy. Jacob Cook was particularly convincing as Peter Bailey, Harry Bailey, Ernie, Charlie and Carter. Young Norah Anderson brought a sincere sweetness to daughter Zuzu. Frank Boston, Laura Brooks, Angela Gardner, Julie Hartley, Matt Lorenz, Lilia Mann and Apollo Reed rounded out the cast with style.
Starlight Dinner Theatre’s current, temporary, NON-dinner location is Delta Presbyterian Church on the north side of west Michigan Avenue between Mall Drive and Creyts Road. Advanced reservations (517-599-2779) are available with tickets at the door while they last. General seating, so get there early for best seats. $17; $15 sr. & student; $10 age 12 and under. Four shows left: Dec. 2, 8, 9 at 7:30 and one Sunday matinee only: Dec. 10 at 2pm.
starlightdinnertheatre.com