REUNIONS

The OYES theatre space in beautiful Ojai currently has on stage a new musical that is unusual in structure, but truly delightful entertainment. It is a strong creative example of a unique retelling of classic tales and the enjoyment that they can continue to bring to audiences.

Reunions glimpses the lives of two sets of estranged lovers, separated by years and circumstances, and then thrown together again by fate. Essentially two one act musicals joined by a common theme, the show’s first act (A Twelve Pound Look) focuses on female independence and the male idea of a perfect wife. Kate (L.J. Stevens) and Harry (Phil Nemy) meet for the first time since She walked out of their relationship years ago. Now a secretary for hire, Kat arrives at Harry’s door moments before he is about to be honored with knighthood. Together, they relive the day she abandoned him and discover each other’s reasons and rationalizations for their past actions. The second act (A Sunny Morning) is decidedly shorter, but lacks nothing in impact or fun. A Sunny Morning begins as we see two people of age (Nemy and Stevens) in a park looking for a bench to rest upon. Forced to share their chosen bench in the crowded setting, they come to discover that the other is the great love of their life lost some many years ago. Each feeling that the other has no idea of whom they are sitting next to, they regale each other with second hand stories of the love that their "friends" once had. In the end, they hold to the nostalgia that has lived deep in their hearts, but gain a renewed sense of hope for the next generation of lovers. Both acts are appealing and deliver a range of emotions and themes, and they succeed for a wide variety of reasons.

As Kate, it is Stevens who drives the first act of Reunions. With a glint in her eye that cannot be doused, she aptly propels the story and embodies the liberated woman, now content to be on her own. Both Stevens and Nemy show great depth of character and they are well supported by a talented surrounding cast who each add a fine element to the show. The voices of the entire cast blend in honey-toned harmonies and that are complimented by considerable comic nuances and strong acting. The first act also boasts strikingly beautiful costumes and a set that is absolutely enthralling. The live band plays well the creative music and the comfortable venue provides a pleasant atmosphere in which to enjoy the melodic musings and engaging stories. The end of the first act fully suggests that a continuation of the story is to come. That is not the case, but what we see after intermission is by no means less entertaining.

When the lights arise for the second half of Reunions, we see nothing of the first act on stage. Upon entry, the actors (Stevens/Nemy) are almost unrecognizable in their new personas. The monochromatic costumes are simple, but effective, and while the hastily hung backdrop fails to impress, the talent and story are again most pleasing and charming. However, whereas the fist act was driven by Stevens with the full support of a truly ensemble cast, in the second half it is Nemy’s dynamic portrayal of the gruff Spanish gentleman that rises above and the connection between he and Stevens that ultimately holds the audience’s attention. The second act plays more as an intimate scene study based around two curious and interesting characters. It is an odd but interesting twist that works well given the light hearted feel of both pieces.

As a new work, it is by far the story that gives flight to this product. The music is strong, though the simplicity of the lyrics at times belies the composition. Still, without a doubt the strong and compelling characters more than pick up the slack. The direction and musical direction by Marty Babayco and Jimmy Calire, respectively, are sure-handed and well-executed. Thusly, the entire production and cast thrive in a way that best serves the audience members who are privileged to observe their handy work.
This production is full of laughter, poignancy, and fun, and provides a gentle pathway of reflection that the characters amble along as they tell their tale. Reunions brings together music and story in a way that is most pleasing to the eyes and ears, but above all, to the heart.

Reunions runs until July 1st at OYES. http://ojaiyes.org/