Midspan of the Poplar

I had the pleasure of sitting in the audience for Sunday's Young People's Theatre production of "Thoroughly Modern Millie". Pleasure might not be a strong enough word. To quote James Lipton, "It was a delight!"

I've never cared much for the movie version of the musical so I had pretty low expectations. The performances by the principal actors were absolutely as good as any I've witnessed. Olivia Threlkeld as Millie, Zac Erhardt as Jimmy, Ryan Anderson as Trevor Graydon, Lauren Lamey as Muzzy, Alissa Brooks as Mrs. Meers and Mallory Degenhardt as Dorothy are truly talented actors and singers. Besides Young People's Theater, many of the actors (ranging in age from 8-18) have also participated in the Muny Kids and Stages St. Louis programs. Young People's Theatre is supported by St. Charles Community College but attracts talent from all over the area. They are a non-profit organization but you would never know it from the product on the stage.

Set in New York in roaring 20's, the play tells the story of Millie who arrives in the city fresh from Kansas with dreams of finding a job and marrying her boss. What entails is a story of speak-easys, high society and white slavery. The play was very funny, especially Mr. Anderson, Ms. Brooks and her henchmen played by Nick Noto and Jacob Feldt. It is also entertaining. Check out Ms. Threlkeld as Millie, Mr. Erhardt as Jimmy, and Ms. Degenhardt as Dorothy, all tremendous singers. Ms. Lamey took on some pretty torchy numbers that were very challenging and made it look easy. Along with a tap-dancing steno pool, some great speak-easy numbers and and whiz-bang opening number by the rest of the cast, the show zipped along and was never dull.

Brisby Andrews, her staff, and the programs volunteers (mostly parents) put together a very complex and challenging palette of staging and costumes. I can't begin to imagine what this program could do with more funding.

There are four performances remaining at the St. Charles Community College's Fine Arts Building. Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28th at 7PM. There are matinees at 2PM on Saturday, March 28th and Sunday, March 29th. I strongly urge people to attend and judge for themselves. You won't be disappointed. You will probably be delighted.