I can guarantee you this much concerning Goodspeed Opera House's jewel-like revival of Carnival!: you'll leave the theater humming the show's best song—the irresistible "Love Makes the World Go Round." Bob Merrill, who composed the score, may have been a second-rate songwriter, generally, but that sweet, simple, sincere number sure stays with you. And it totally suits the persona of this show's naïve, open-hearted heroine, Lili, played beautifully by Lauren Worsham. Goodspeed's production is a perfect summer treat. Both the cast and the orchestra are significantly smaller than in the original Broadway production, but this more intimate version feels just right. There's no need to ever make this show any bigger; the story itself is rather intimate. A trusting, unspoiled girl—who notes with wonder that she has taken "two buses and a train" from her small town to join this carnival—is torn between feelings for a slick, manipulative cad, "Marco the Magnificent" (Mike McGowan) and an earnest but emotionally stunted puppeteer, Paul (Adam Monley), who can only express feelings through his puppets. There's much to savor here, from the gorgeous settings of David P. Gordon to the dramatic lighting of John Laster to the suitably light, delicate touch director Darko Tresnjak has brought to the piece. The show itself was never a masterpiece, but Michael Stewart's book is well-crafted, and Merrill’s songs, while never profound, are always agreeably, pleasantly melodic. Throw in some first-rate musicians, plus a neat carnival trick or two, and you have a fine bit of escapist fare.
(Pictured: Lauren Worsham and Adam Monley; Photo by Diane Sobolewski)
Chip Deffaa
Cabaret Scenes
August 4, 2010
www.cabaretscenes.org
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