Most modern-day audiences are not familiar with this delightfully punny musical comedy, but Me and My Girl originally opened as a smash hit in London in 1937 and enjoyed a long run. It is one of those breezy, timeless musicals that any theater-goer can appreciate. The Legacy Theatre provides the ideal backdrop, as its classic red curtain and vintage footlights instantly transport the audience into the 1930s with the very first notes of the overture. This production is colorful, gilded and grand—making for a stellar, first-rate summer evening of theater.
The plot, though not terribly important, revolves around good-hearted and cockney Bill Snibson, who’s discovered to be the heir of the Earl of Hareford. Before he can assume his title, Snibson must prove himself to be a gentleman befitting of high society and marry an equally proper gal. Unfortunately, his longtime (and equally low-brow) girlfriend, Sally, is not one to be scared off easily. With the Hareford family attempting to undo their love at every punch-line, Snibson’s refusal to let Sally go somehow manages to keep the plot running through both joyful acts.
The role of Snibson is impressively tackled by Ryan Croke, who delivers a towering, high-octane performance fueled by the relentless energy of a 1980s aerobics instructor on methamphetamines. Croke’s portrayal is equal parts Dick Van Dyke’s rubber-legged charm and Jim Carrey’s unhinged character in Ace Ventura. While his British accent may occasionally wax and wane, it hardly matters; if anything, the vocal slip-ups only add to the cheeky gaiety and extraordinary physical comedy he commands on stage.
Equally charming is Allison Means as Sally. Her vocal range and delivery are top-notch and on full display during the iconic tune “Once You Lose Your Heart.” Means provides a grounded juxtaposition to Croke’s over-the-top persona. In fact, she plays the contrast so effectively that during Sally’s half-hearted attempt to leave Bill, the audience can’t help but sympathize with a wry thought, maybe she really does need to leave him— this lady could use a break.
“There are some heartfelt moments, but it’s very funny, very slapstick and a lot of falling down. You will laugh a lot,” Means said.
Cousins Lady Carstone and Gerald Bolingbroke are also engaged to be wed, but at the news of the rich heir back in the picture, Carstone has taken it upon herself to seduce Snibson. This doesn’t thwart Bolingbroke’s decision to marry her, however, and he continues to follow her around like a lost golden retriever. Will Moffett plays Bolingbroke as a dandy twit with a raucously funny, upper-crust accent from another planet. Peyton Boudouris shines as Carstone and sings the witty and self-absorbed tune “Thinking of No One But Me” with pitch-perfect clarity. Other stand-out performances are Broderic Elder as Cedric Parchester, who sings his own little anthem any chance he gets, Rich Beans as Sir John Tremayne and Greg Floyd as Lord Battersby.
The talented ensemble is in constant motion with delightfully cheerful choreography (provided by Susan Collier) and a harmonious vocal blend with direction by Melissa Blankestyn. Alaire Gordon and Lydia Ressler stood out as up-and-coming ensemble members to watch, and special kudos must be given to Jaden Saunders and Marissa Hettel for their flawless dance performances. Squire Prince is delightful in every scene and faux plays the piano expertly. “Come expecting to laugh, to lean in and just exist for a moment,” Prince said.
Scott Richardson’s masterful direction and scene design also deserve high praise, as both elements are phenomenal. The ever-changing set is consistently lush and decadent, and it offers exciting surprises for the audience. Mary McDonald and Betty Ring’s costume plot is a work of impeccable genius; most characters don a new, period-perfect ensemble every 10 minutes, ensuring the entire cast is beautifully dressed to the nines in exquisite 1930s style.
If you’re looking for a fun night of theater with hummable tunes, fourth-wall breaks, tap dances and songs ending with the “ba-dum-ching” of a wink-and-a-nod, look no further. The Legacy’s Me and My Girl will put you in an exuberant mood.
“It is a happy experience from start to finish; there’s drama but no serious conflict, and it’s suitable for all ages,” Croke said.
Me and My Girl, directed by Scott Richardson, continues its run at the Legacy Theatre July 15-19 and 22-26. Performances start at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are available online at atthelegacy.com.
