If the story of one of the most talented and prolific lyricists of all time interests you , make your way to “Falling For Make Believe” at The Colony Theatre in Burbank extended through June 30th in The Media Center.
This cautionary tale of songwriter Lorenz Hart , who with partner Richard Rodgers formed one of the foremost song-writing teams in Broadway history, lets you in on the life Hart made for himself when his fame collided with his genius.
Over 20 years, the duo wrote 28 Broadway plays, eight movies and over 550 songs. They even made the cover of Time Magazine. Their songs were covered by some of the most celebrated vocalists of their time, including, Frank Sinatra, Billie Holiday, Judy Garland, Ella Fitzgerald and Bing Crosby.
But none of the musical machinations are more intense than the side of Hart the Colony chooses to show. It is dark, gritty and unsettling. But, that, in turn, is what makes Mark Saltzman’s book the masterwork it is.
We see Hart in all his loneliness, despair and guilt unable to be on time for, or disappear for days from, song-writing sessions with Rodgers because of issues with homosexuality, which the musical examines with great candor in the Second Act, and alcoholism.
Saltzman’s words along with Rodgers’ music and Hart’s lyrics make for spell-binding theatre.
Jim Fall’s direction, Keith Harrison’s musical direction and Lisa Hopkins’ choreography only add to the authenticity and feel of the moment.
Fall keeps the musical realistic without becoming fluffy. It pays-off from beginning to end.
Stand-outs include Tyler Milliron (Fletcher Mecklen), who gives a sensitive portrayal. His depth and honesty hit all four walls. Milliron has the face of a matinee idol and the charisma of a Broadway star.
Ben D. Goldberg (Lorenz Hart) is perfect as the brilliant, but tortured Hart. He gives a performance of such nuance and subtlety that the details can easily be missed they seem so natural.
But it is Rebecca Ann Johnson (Vivian Ross) who steals the show. Whether acting, singing or dancing, her relaxed demeanor and electric stage presence add a dimension to this musical it otherwise lacks. Johnson is a rare talent: A triple threat whose gregariousness and understanding of her character stretch further than that of just about any actor or actress working in Los Angeles theatre today.
The set design of Jeff McLaughlin, costume design of Dianne K. Graebner and lighting design of Sohail e. Najafi also add to the play.
All in all, “Falling For Make Believe” pushes boundaries and dares go where few celebrity stage biographies do. This is a show that does not shy away from controversy or make light of personal tragedy. Instead, it tells the life of one man, who like us all, was far from perfect, but tried to tame his personal demons. A man who touched and moved people with words like few before or after.
SHOWTIMES:Thursdays & Fridays at 8:00pm;Saturdays at 3:00pm and 8:00pm;and Sundays at 2:00pm.
TICKETS:Prices range from $29-$49.
INFORMATION:Call (818) 558-7000
WHERE:The Colony Theatre is located at 555 North Third Street, at the corner of Cypress, in the heart of the Burbank Media Center.
