A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC is a lovely work. The storyline, inspired by Ingmar Bergman’s movie Smiles Of A Summer Night, which was inspired by Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer’s Night Dream’ appeals with its expansive, multi-angled take on love and relationships, engages from start to finish. The main players are all in love but sometimes their hearts are set on someone who loves another. Stephen Sondheim’s music and lyrics are a delight with the book by Hugh Wheeler.
There was a vibrant energy coming from a large, focused cast, more than ably directed by Dean Bryant.
The scenario sees ex-lovers Fredrik Egerman and Desiree Armfeldt have a chance meeting which enflames old passions, Frederik and his wife are invited to Madame Armfeldt’s country house where Desiree intends to win him back. Other guests are also invited to go on the weekend and the play is taken to interval with a rousing version of ‘A Weekend In The Country’.
Whilst all the cast were very strong these were the performances that were the most striking.
Blazey Best is suitably playful and disarming as Desiree. Best made the most of delivering the show’s classic number with an, at times, raw interpretation of Send In The Clowns.
The legendary Nancy Hayes is fantastic as Desiree’s tough but compassionate mother Madame Armfeldt.
The youngest cast member Pamela Papacosta left a strong impression as Desiree’s good natured daughter, Frederika.
Leon Ford shone as Frederik, whose heart Desiree is determined to ensnare. Melanie Ford was excellent as his young wife Anne. Jeremy Campese was a stand-out as his temperamental son, Henrik.
Joshua Robson’s portrayal of the bullish Count Carl-Magnus Malcolm was spot on, as he strove to keep Fredrik away from his Desiree.
Kiana Daniele impressed, showing some good comic touches as the maid Petra, and delivered a very zingy version of The Miller’s Son.
Bryant’s creative team vividly brought together the play’s world. Chief amongst them were Jeremy Allen who created a very functional set, Angela Doherty’s period costumes were very impressive as was the work of lighting designer Veronique E Bennett, sound designer Dylan Robinson and movement director Shannon Burns.
The audience was treated to a full and lush sound from the five piece orchestra led by Musical Directors Michael Tyack and David Gardos with Alec Steedman the Associate Musical Director. The whole cast realised the colour and brilliance of Sondheim’s songs and performed them superbly.
Highly recommended, A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim with book by Hugo Wheeler, is playing till the 11th November at the Hayes Theatre Co, 19 Greenknowe Ave, Potts Point. Performances are Mondays 6.30pm, Tuesdays to Saturdays at 7.30pm, Thursday matinees at 1pm and Saturday matinees at 2pm. There is a captioned performance on Wednesday 1 November. Price: Tickets are from $79 to $99. Bookings: www.hayestheatre.com.au or (02) 8065 7337
Featured image : The cast of ‘A Little Night Music’. Production photography by John McCrae.