Turned Around

The saying, "Less is more” expresses the idea that brevity, simplicity and clarity are the essence of good design. It usually describes art or architecture. But I suspect it may have a much broader scope than that. This month I helped to stage a production of The Marvelous Wonderettes. This musical had a cast of four. Each actress had just one costume change. There was almost no scenery and very few props; just enough to give the impression of time and place. There was very little dialog, and much of it was improvised. The entire show from overture to exit music was 120 minutes, including a generous intermission. But it told a rich and delightful story. I watched from the orchestra each night as the audience became fully engaged. The house was packed night after night, and every single time we received an enthusiastic standing ovation. Maybe this is the future of community theatre. I can only hope so.