Great Barrington Public Theater, Great Barrington, MA
through August 11, 2024
by Suzanne Wells
Great Barrington Public Theater wraps up their summer season with the immersive production of “Night At The Speakeasy.” Directed by Wendy Welch, this swell show features a series of cabaret songs interspersed with historical dialogue that captures the essence of the Roaring Twenties, including the dancing, the lingo, and the freedom to express oneself.
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| Photo by Katherine Humes |
underground gin joint. To enter, one walks down a darkened stairwell, lined with foliage and garden statues, to a red door. Presenting a password grants admittance to a dimly lit, smoke-filled bar where the stage is filled with clothed tables and chairs for the audience, who are encouraged to dress for the occasion, so don’t forget a feather boa or fedora. Art, along with an old-fashioned telephone, hang along the walls, and a myriad of chandeliers adorn the ceiling. A cozy corner with velvet-lined chairs and a cigarette creates a lovely selfie-station. The stage, located where the audience would normally sit, consists of a velvet-lined chaise lounge and an upright piano. The intimate setting allows the audience to socialize while enjoying the entertainment.
Speaking of entertainment, Janelle Farias Sando’s performance is the “bee’s knees”! Her basic black costumes with glittering accessories are sexy and evocative. Singing a variety of romantic, comical, and soulful jazz songs allows Ms. Sando to show off her dynamic vocal range and comedic style. Kicking off the show with a performance of “Let’s Be Bad,” she maneuvers her way across the room, acknowledging each table, before taking the stage. And her risqué rendition of “Paris Makes Me Horny”, might make one miss their landline.
Accompanied by Hudson Orfe, a master tickler of the ivories, he also contributes to the vocals and an occasional joke. Together, the duo create a memorable experience.
The only thing missing from “Night At The Speakeasy” is a police raid and paddy wagon. Otherwise, it is an entertaining evening filled with laughter, libations, and liberties — one might even say it is the “cat’s pajamas"!
