‘Merrily We Roll Along’ opens at the Ast oria Per forming Arts Center 16 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2015 THE ARTS Story & Photos by Bradley Hawks How did I get here? It’s a question we have all asked ourselves in a moment of reflection. But in real life, there is no rewind button to trace the moments back through the people, places and experiences that all come together to bring us to this very moment. In musical theater, however, that is precisely what Stephen Sondheim did in “Merrily We Roll Along,” which opened on April 30 at the Astoria Performing Arts Center (APAC). According to APAC’s website, “With an exciting score, humor, idealism and insight, ‘Merrily We Roll Along’ starts at the end and ends at the beginning. We see snapshots of 20 years in the lives of Franklin Shepard and his close friends and ponder the show’s central question: ‘How did you get to be here?’” With music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and a book by George Furth, based on the original play by George S. Kaufman and Moss Hart, the musical is directed by Dev Bondarin, APAC’s artistic director. “I am thrilled to bring the work of Stephen Sondheim to APAC for the first time with ‘Merrily We Roll Along.’ In college, I worked backstage on a production of ‘Merrily,’ which was one of my most formative theater experiences, and the beginning of some lifelong friendships,” reflects Bondarin. “Returning to this show as my first musical as artistic director at APAC is fitting. The show, which spans 20 years and examines the longevity of friendships and hope for the future, feels like coming home to an old friend.” The vibrant cast features standout performances by each of the lead roles, with the superior support of a nimble and versatile ensemble. Nicholas Park, who plays the role of Charley with such a tender vulnerability, proves he is a master of physical comedy with an electric performance of “Franklin Shepard, Inc.” Ally Bonino, in the role of Mary, wins the compassion of the audience early on in the show (late in the character’s life) when she finally finds the courage, albeit liquid courage, to illuminate her realizations about her tragic lifelong crush. Bonino’s sarcasm and wit are subtle and exquisite. Jack Mosbacher’s take on Franklin Shepard is refreshingly accessible and often sweet, allowing us to easily see how fame and fortune can taint what begins as a noble talent. The entire show is a beautiful example of how Sondheim cleverly mixes lyrics and leitmotivs to evoke empathy, laughter, even frustration at times—and ultimately the sometimes alarming realization that no matter how we reflect on the past, that is precisely where it will always remain—in our past. The production features scenic design by Andrea Nice, costume design by Jennifer Jacob, and lighting design by Jesse Sheldon. Arielle Edwards is the sound designer, Katie White is the prop designer, and Kat Meister is the production stage manager. “Merrily We Roll Along” plays the following regular schedule through Saturday, May 23: Thursdays and Fridays at 8 p.m. Saturdays at 2 and 8 p.m. Tickets are $18, or $12 for students and seniors, available at www.apacny.org or by calling 888-596-1027. Tickets may also be purchased in person at the box office, 30 minutes prior to the performance. Good Shepherd United Methodist Church 30-44 Crescent St. (at 30th Rd.) Astoria, NY 11102
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