FOR BREAKING NEWS VISIT www.queenscourier.com may 15, 2014 • buzz • The Queens Courier 79 “Allegro” at APAC Rodgers and Hammerstein’s 1900s musical “Allegro” is currently enjoying a slick 21stcentury face-lift at Astoria Performing Arts Center (APAC). Director Tom Wojtunik, in his final project at this venue, has maximized the performance space and minimized the show’s unnecessary complexities. The basic story is a familiar one. In it, a poor but honest small town boy is nurtured by loving and unselfish parents. Soon he is tempted by wealth and corruption in the big city. Ultimately he regains his moral center and returns to his humble beginnings. The story’s unmistakable predictability is, in fact, its greatest strength. Mark Banik is in the leading role as Joseph Taylor Jr., an endearing, good-hearted young man. He sings and acts with honesty despite the whirlwind of conflicts surrounding him. His father, Dr. Joseph Taylor (Andy Lebon) is a confident, compassionate physician. His wife Marjorie (Daniella Dalli) has us hooked from the start with her poise and motherly self-sacrifice. Young Joey (Christopher Milo) and Grandma Taylor (Jean Liuzzi) admirably fulfill their expected roles as trusting son and nurturing elder. Young Jennie (Fiona Shea) remains carefree. However, adult Jennie (Crystal Kellogg) willingly succumbs to a jaded life in the big city. Her materialistic father (Tony Perry) has sown the seeds for this shallow personality change. Amiable Charlie Townsend (Joshua Stenseth) A VIEW FROM THE CLIFF BY CLIFF KASDEN is Joe’s work-shirking best friend. But his loyalty and sense of morality ultimately outweigh his weaknesses. Undoubtedly the most angelic character is lovely Manna Nichols as Emily West. She wears her nurse’s whites throughout the second act, remaining unwavering in her feelings for Joe. Although this character is the most clichéd, Ms. Nichols keeps the role fresh and very entertaining. Supporting players skillfully sing, dance and nod to the audience. It’s as if they fully expect us to understand their actions and our own reactions as the story progresses. Bravo! Choreography (Christine O’Grady) is fresh and fast-moving. It capably supports the play’s title “Allegro,” which means “lively” on the treble clef. The musical direction (Julianne B. Merrill) is equally sharp and crisp. Sets (Stephen K. Dobay) are minimal but clever. APAC is located at 30-44 Crescent St. (Good Shepherd United Methodist Church) in Astoria. For information on this and future productions call their offices (in Kaufman Astoria Studios) at 718-706-5750 or surf to [email protected]. As always, save me a seat on the aisle. YOUR PROMOTIONS SUPERMARKET SINCE 1995 CORPORATE & TEAM OUTFITTING H Staff Shirts H Giveaways H Family Reunions H School/Camps H Organizations/Events CUSTOM APPAREL H T-SHIRTS POPULAR BRAND WHITE TEE SCREEN PRINTED (1 COLOR) MIN. 144* ONLY $295 $495 QueensCourier.com (Screen Printed or Embroidered) 2013 THE QUEENS H CAPS/HATS H UNIFORMS H JACKETS H BACK PACKS H BAGS H TROPHIES EACH *SAME DEAL: SWEATSHIRTS EACH CALL FOR FREE CATALOG of the 866.701.3263 H 718.969.3144 YOU NAME IT, WE GOT IT!!! (We can customize your art, logo, messages on anything!) Pens (All Types) Bags (Plastic/Paper) Calendars Water Bottles Awareness Bracelets Food Gifts Corporate Gifts Badges & Buttons Electronics Calculators Computer Accessories Eco Friendly Products Full Color Magnetic Business Cards 10 ¢ each Minimum 1,000 Your Business Card Their Refrigerator 866.701.3263 H 718.969.3144 www.PROMOTIONALEMPIRE.com Unhappy with your High School? Registration Open: Now-July 11, 2014 Call for a tour/visit today: 212.505.6366
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