Theatre Arlington grabbed the spotlight for a double note of sweet success with Forever Plaid. Fifteen years ago four talented artists crooned well- harmonized tunes over 500 times to enthusiastic acclaim at Fort Worth’s Casa on the Square in Stuart Ross’ 1990 Off Broadway hit musical fantasy revue featuring a “guy group” modeled after the wholesome 1950’s Four Freshmen.
Plaid Lads
Today, the charming gents still weave their magic with skill and verve, even if receding hairlines reflect time’s passage. Selling out houses nightly, justifying an extended run through October 16, Forever Plaid is ”peachy keen” homage to a kinder, gentler era with superb harmonizing and solos. Each performer’s artistry contributes to solid ensemble effect due to a combination of individual professionalism and their obvious affection for each other and the material. The rollicking variety show style revue presents over twenty mid-century hits, including “Three Coins in the Fountain”; “Undecided”; “Gotta Be This or That”; “Moments to Remember”; “Crazy ‘Bout Ya, Baby”; “No, Not Much”; “Sixteen Tons”; “Chain Gang”; “Perfidia”; “Cry”; “Heart and Soul”; “Lady of Spain”; “Scotland the Brave”; “Shangri-La”; “Rags to Riches”; and “Love is a Many-Splendored Thing”. The lads’ gentle banter and innocent revelations provide smooth segue between numbers and allow the audience to understand their personalities and dreams. Killed in a car crash in 1964 en route to a gig, they’ve been “allowed” to come back to earth to give that one performance of a lifetime…. Don’t miss your opportunity to catch the “fab four” – Todd Hart, Neil Mowles, Paul Taylor and Chris Williamson – for their final run. Director Todd Hart waxes poetic:“I think that knowing that this is the last time we’re ever going to do this precious piece that we all love so very much makes us sit back and say, ‘I’m so incredibly blessed to have had this in my life.” If you lived the early 60’s era, the show will warm your heart with nostalgic memories. New to you? It offers unexpected delight: a great first date, special anniversary treat, or perfect evening with a treasured grandma? Theatre Arlington’s got ya covered in Forever Plaid.
Promotional video link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UM-Qh3GOajc
Theater Arlington’s Forever Plaid runs through October 16.
Tickets: (817) 275-7661 www.theatrearlington.org
Photo: Neil Mowles, Todd Hart (above), Chris Williamson, Paul Taylor
As written for arlingtontexasmagazine.com
criticalrant.com Alexandra Bonifield 