THE FANTASTICKS - the original fringe musical (1959)

Great performances loved the harp!!... full review

A respectable production of the venerable Off Broadway hit, thought it falls short of the virtuosic quality of the same company's "A Man of No Importance" at last year's Fringe. The piano/harp instrumentation adds a delightful layer of color to the score, but the placement of those instruments on opposite sides of the stage sacrifices some rhythmic coordination between the musicians. Acting and vocal talent ranges from adequate to very good. If the material resonates with you, you'll find it well-delivered by this production.... full review

I saw this beautiful production last night, and had to go back this afternoon to share it with another friend. It's that awesome. The score is beautiful, and handled expertly by musical director/conductor, Corey Hirsh & harpist, Jillian Risigari-Gai. The cast is lovely- Heartbreaking & hilarious with stand-out moments for each wonderful actor. Janet Miller's direction and choreography are nothing short of perfect, as every moment is handled with the specificity and honesty it deserves. I know I keep using the words "beautiful" and "perfect," but Kate Barrett's lighting design is just that. A beautiful, beautiful piece. I wish there was more theater like this in L.A. Highly recommended.... full review

An absolutely wonderful production of the Fantasticks by Janet Miller, Corey Hirsch and the Good People Theater Company. I grinned from ear to ear from beginning to end. Great cast, great staging, great music, great everything! ... full review

This is a lovely recreation of the original production with beautiful musical direction, clear singing voices, clean direction and a sweet sensibility. Good People Theater Company is a force of good in the musical theater community for sure!... full review

Delightful production of "The Fantasticks!" Even though it's been around forever, the Good People Theater Company managed to inject new life into the piece and maintain all the laughs. Joey D'Auria as the Old Actor and Corky Loupe as Mortimer were stand-outs! Bravo to Janet Miller and her company. ... full review

I've never seen the Fantasticks, so thanks to Good People Theatre Company for giving me a chance. At two hours run time, it's a beast for Fringe schedules, but I saw a pleasant crowd of all ages walk out with a smile on their face. Personally, I have negotiated a détente in my war against musical theatre, but tensions still run deep in the decades-long conflict. I do not enjoy much of the "classic musical" catalog, of which I think it is safe to include "The Fantasticks." While the actor-controlled aesthetic feels "Fringe-y" - whatever that even means - there seems to be a staleness or lack of vitality that I can't necessarily place on the production or the source material. Certainly, with a centerpiece of a woman treated as property (and th... full review

The Fantasticks was absolutely delightful in every way! I have seen this show many times throughout the years... However, this production is my favorite by far. The direction, (Janet Miller does it again! Fabulous!) The musical numbers, superb acting, comedic timing, the harp and piano, staging-lighting, the pacing of the show, was a "ten" across the board! This production is flawless. It is the perfect "Fantasticks!" Go see this production- It's just too good to miss! I wish you all the best!- Marci Richmond Herrera... full review

The Fantasticks was a wonderful show. The harp was amazing and elevated the entire production to the next next. The design of the show fit the Lillian Theatre like a glove and I don't think I've seen that much confetti used in my life, ever! Matt Franta was delightful as the bright eyed and hopeful Matt and brought a a wonderful grounded-ness to a role that is often a caricature. Janet Miller directed and once again did an amazing job, I cannot wait to see what show Good People Theatre Company does next. I would highly recommend this production!... full review

This really is a flawless production brought to life on the most professional scale – all the while being a TOTAL fun Fringe show. Dir., Janet Miller, demonstrates her incomparably high standard of excellence by offering the Fringe a special piece that she fell in love with long ago and by bringing it to the Fringe, has endeavored to convert newbies like myself as well as harking back to those many others whom THE FANTASTICKS has taken permanent residence in their heart. There really are so many fantastic elements to this particular production from the singing, to the razor sharp direction and comedic delivery.. One lesson can be learned: when the Good People offer you show like the Fantasticks - don't take it for granted.... full review