Stephen Sondheim’s COMPANY is a timeless classic that explores the complexities of modern relationships through the eyes of the charming but commitment-phobic bachelor Bobby. The musical, which premiered in 1970, features some of Sondheim’s most beloved songs, such as “The Ladies Who Lunch,” “Being Alive,” and “Another Hundred People.”
The cast of COMPANY is essential to its success, and the performers must be able to navigate the complex emotional landscape of the show. Each member of the cast in any production brings something unique to their roles. The cast of the Old Academy Players staging of “Company” is no exception.
Brian Rothman as David, Galadriel Sevener as April, Haley Dunning as Susan, Jordan Mann as Harry, Kristen Spangenberg as Jenny, Kyle Mitchell as Peter, Liat Kovnator as Marta, Lisa Sims as Amy, Ryan Baber as Paul, Samantha Solar as Sarah, Temma Schaechter as Kathy, Theresa Swartz as Joanne, and Thomas Stone as Larry all deliver strong performances in their respective roles.
Josh Tull as Bobby is one of the standout performances in the production. Tull finds the perfect balance between charm and vulnerability, making his character’s inner conflict palpable. Tull chooses to live in each scene, absorbing the content being delivered to him from the various couples/girlfriends – often taking on the role of the observer. The nuanced observational quality Tull brings to many scenes is the quiet substance often looked over by many other actors portrayals of Bobby. Bobby can often be boiled down to “douche bachelor” by many actors but that is not the case here. Additionally, Tull’s singing is breathtaking, conveying the emotional depth of Sondheim’s lyrics with a seemingly buttery ease. It is clear Tull has a mastering of his vocals not often found on community theater stages.
There are other standouts too, especially Lisa Sims for her comedic timing and ability to convey the frantic energy of her character, Amy. Sims delivers a quirky, challenging, and touching performance in “Not Getting Married Today.” One could argue this is among the most difficult musical theater pieces written as it requires so much vocally from the actress singing it. It is fast, frantic, and filled with more words then a dictionary. In her scene with soon to be husband Paul (Baber), they play off each other quite well. Sims and Tull in this final scene rounding out the first act nail the turning point of the production. Trying to make a mountain out of a molehill, Tull’s character asks Sims’ to marry him. The following moments are fleeting but Tull and Sims share what is a wonderful inflection point led by Sims that propels us into the final number of the act.
Other standouts include Theresa Swartz as Joanne, Samantha Solar as Sarah, and Liat Kovantor as Marta. Swartz finds the essence of her character, capturing wit and vulnerability in equal measure. She nails one of Sondheim’s most popular pieces “The Ladies Who Lunch” with such ease and grace. Solar is fully engaged in every scene, giving off a nervous yet endearing energy that is palpable and plays well. And Kovantor delivers another iconic Sondheim piece, “Another Hundred People”, bombastically – a true showstopper vocally.
Sondheim’s music and lyrics are notoriously challenging, but the Old Academy Players cast of “Company” rises to the occasion. The score is full of intricate harmonies and complex rhythms, and the performers execute them very well. The show’s themes of love and loneliness are also explored with sensitivity and nuance, thanks in part to the talented cast. Tull and company seem to have found great chemistry for their different moments, all being the people they need to be when they need to be them.
Overall, the Old Academy Players production of COMPANY is a wonderfully entertaining production, showcasing the incredible talents of its cast and the timelessness of Sondheim’s work. The minimal but effective direction by Annie Hnatko allows the performers to shine, and the show is a testament to the power of theater to move and inspire audiences.
COMPANY runs through May 7th. More information and ticket options can be found here: https://oldacademyplayers.org/shows/company/
Old Academy Players
3544 Indian Queen Ln
Philadelphia, PA 19129
215-843-1109
Review submitted by:
Genny Black
Author’s Bio:
Genny Black is a Philadelphia local. Theater reviewer, enthusiast, and hobbyist.
