Review: Chasing Nicolette sat The Village Theatre
The Village Theatre in Issaquah opens its new season with the West Coast Premier of Chasing Nicolette. Chasing Nicolette was conceived by composer David Friedman with the book and lyrics by two-time Tony award nominee Peter Kellogg. Mr. Friedman has composed hundred of popular songs and has been a vocal arranger and conductor for Disney in several animated musicals.
This entertaining musical comedy is directed by Steve Tomkins, who has in the past directed and choreographed numerous productions at the Village Theatre. The music director R.J. Tancioco has the delightful job of working with a creative team to arrange and deliver a very melodic score that enhances the action. This play is entertaining with a strong cast and are up to the task. The songs are funny and delightful and the story unfolds with rhymed couplets, not always a easy task.
Chasing Nicolette which is based upon the French medieval romance, Aucassin and Nicolette that takes place in 1224. An age old story of crossed star lovers, Nicolette (Tanesha Ross) is a young women who is a maid in the palace. She is in love with the King’s son Aucassin (Matthew John Kacergis) and he loves her and sees no issue with presenting her to his father with his desire to marry. Aside the status difference, Nicolette is a Moor and her beloved is a Christian. The story and action are full speed ahead with angry parents, dungeons and exuberant swordplay and a surprise or two along the way. Aucassin’s father Count Beauclaire (Allan Michael Barlow) is a fine fellow who only wants the best for his kingdom, himself and his son in that order. Lots of laughter and shenanigans when he meets Nicolette’s father Moor King (Timothy McCuen Piggee) whose desire is the same for his daughter, in the same order.
The action never stops and the supporting cast members Brian Demar, Eric Polani Jensen, Kate Jaeger, and Jessica Skerritt keep you guessing. It reminds you of a Moliere play, lots of twists and turns before everything ends well. The songs are responsive to the action taking place on stage. The role of the put upon servant, Valere performed by Nick DeSantis is sharp and funny from beginning to end. His rendition in the first act of the song “You have to lie” is jaunty and sung with so much conviction.
This is the 30th Anniversary Season for the Village Theatre and they have started the season off with a winner. I am looking forward to more productions at the Village Theatre.
Chasing Nicolette plays at the Francis J. Gaudette Theatre in Issaquah from September 17 – October 25, 2009 and Everett Performing Arts Center in Everett from October 30 – November 22, 2009. For tickets and more info, visit www.villagetheatre.org.
– Ethel W.
