THE FANTASTICKS - the original fringe musical (1959)

The Good People at Good People Theatre Company have set the bar for musicals at the Fringe this year. This well-produced, well-executed show was a great way to kick off my 2014 Fringe Experience. I have seen "The Fantasticks" before, off-Broadway, and Janet Miller's team bring a production that easily rivals New York in quality. One could say that this show was so good, it made me wonder what it's doing at the Fringe. I mean that in the best way possible, of course. Joey D'Auria and Corky Loupé steal the show as Henry and Mortimer, and Michael Wallot channels a very Paul Lynde vibe in his interpretation of Bellomy. However, my favorite had to be Christopher Karbo's scoundrel, El Gallo, who commands the stage naturally with an ease and g... full review

Despite their best efforts, the good folks of Good People Theater Company are unable to recreate the magic they achieved with their 2013 fringe hit, A Man of No Importance, in their current revival of The Fantasticks. Contributing to the lackluster production are pacing issues and actors without the singing ability, stage presence, or emotional depth to effectively handle the demands of the roles. The exposed nature of comedy makes it even more difficult to pull off than drama and so much more obvious when it isn’t working. In the absence of real passion, poignancy and an understanding of how to blend the bitter with the sweet - which is what makes this Schmidt & Jones classic so satisfying - it left me feeling restless. Even the mor... full review

I always enjoy this show, the writing and the music never gets old. This lovely production featured a harp, which adds its own magic. Joey D'Auria and Corky Loupé are standouts as The Old Actor and The Man Who Dies -- the best I have seen in those roles including 3 NY casts over 30 years, including 2 at the Sullivan Street Playhouse where the show ran for 42 years. Special congrats to Audrey Curd for enduring a Preview Night act-long wardrobe malfunction that didn't dim her nuanced performance a bit. Most actresses would have fallen apart. I'll see it again before the Fringe ends, I'm that kind of sad addict.... full review

THE FANTASTICKS was a great way for me to start my 2014 Fringe adventure! A wonderful show with great actors and great directing. The actors were strong enough without a mike to be heard and they all had great chemistry. The mute was a joy to watch as she silently helped actors getting dressed and as she set the mood for each scene. Mortimer and Henry played their roles with such ease and joy, that they could put on their own two-person show and I would go see it. I sat front row next to the harp, which was gentle enough to hear all the actors and it was a great experience for me to watch the harp player rock out to some of the tunes. :-) Get your tickets and catch this show by the Good People Theater Company! It will be worth your time... full review

Janet Miller has magnificently directed a show close to the hearts of many of us. The music is divine, enhanced with the addition of a lovely harp, played by Jillian Risigari-Gai. I have never seen the show done with a harp before and it makes a wonderful addition to so many scenes, often adding magic to the sweep of a hand in the air. It's no wonder that the original production included a harp! All of the actors bring a sense of wonder and joy to their roles, with tall, dark and handsome Christopher Karbo cutting a dashing figure as El Gallo, especially the way he can handle a red satin cape. The two fathers are a riot, and their choreography is light and cute at every turn. Although at times it was difficult to hear Luisa and Matt's wor... full review

Fantastic show! Everyone should go see this. Family friendly and exceptional voices and staging. This is more of a full show than a typical fringe show. There were costumes, keyboard and a harp. Producers should be congratulated for starting and ending on time. This makes it easier to go to multiple fringe shows.... full review

I really enjoyed the FANTASTICKS opening night…such a beautiful piece! My favorite performances are Corey Hirsch (MD) , the harp player, and the wonderful "Old Actor", Joey D'Auria….who all are wondrous in their abilities. ... full review

Whatta fun show! "Do you remember . . ."? Yes, of course - and this is a wonderful revival of those fond memories - of simple stories and joyful performances. The production makes efficient use of the small stage and the actors pull it off in fine form. Enjoyed it tremendously!!... full review

Five reasons to go see The Fantasticks: 1. Gorgeous harp played beautifully. (When I heard there was going to be a live harp I really didn't see the big deal- trust me, it's a big deal. Such a treat for the price of admission) 2. Joey D'Auria as the Old Actor will leave you in stitches. Sometimes even before he enters the stage (with the help of assistant Corky Loupe whose part seems to have been crafted straight out of an episode of "I Love Lucy.") 3. Miller's choreography is nothing short of brilliant. She really "gets" this show; some hysterical little comedic "easter eggs" for musical buffs as well. 4. The fathers (Michael Wallot and Matt Stevens) sing together like seasoned vaudevillians- their comedic duets radiate charm, ... full review

Fabulous way to spend a few hours of one's life. You've got love, youth, dreams, schemes and did I mention a harp? Two instruments that managed to fill up your heart and head. Cast was wonderful. Sadness, a bit, but much, much more joy and laughter. (They even managed to throw in 'Benghazi', but not like in the Sunday talk/news shows.) I urge everyone to attend, not just because it enriches your soul and revives your imagination but also to show support for live theatre in LA. Go on, be a "Fringer"! (you know you want to!) ... full review