Rodgers & Hart: A Celebration

Rodgers & Hart: A Celebration at Light Opera Works

Light Opera Works Second Stage

1420 Maple Avenue, Evanston IL

Runs October 2-November 6, 2011

Box Office (847) 869-6300; $27-42

Recommended

A classy night of music by Rodgers and Hart

Review by Darcy Rose Coussens

Light Opera Works offers the best of the music of Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart in one entertaining review. The six performers covered a whopping 57 songs, mixing it up with selections such as “Blue Moon,” “Sing For Your Supper,” “Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered,” and “The Lady is a Tramp.” The singers were excellent and the show well planned, with a concept by Richard Lewine and John Fearnley.

Although there were such a large number of songs represented in the review, the performers smoothly transitioned from one to the next. The first act felt a bit long, but the second act picked up with much more energy and the medleys of old favorites were accompanied by props and personality. Director and choreographer Rudy Hogenmiller, also artistic director of Light Opera Works, and music director Linda Slein have polished the works of Rodgers and Hart into a single cohesive show with plenty of variety.

The audience stood at the end for the charming performers, who wore tuxes or black dresses and sparkly jewelry. Altogether, this was a class act. The show is for ages 12 and older, and tickets are half price for guests ages 21 and younger. If you’re a Rodgers and Hart fan, this is absolutely a night you will enjoy.