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As the final show in the 2023-2024 Broadway in Portland season comes to an end, I am excited to view the highly anticipated show COMPANY playing now through the 21st at the Keller Auditorium. From the moment I entered the theater, the ambiance was electric with anticipation. The set immediately caught my eye: a sleek, modern New York City apartment that cleverly transformed to fit various scenes throughout the show. The use of movable panels and minimalist design added a dynamic touch, enhancing the fluidity of the production.
Company – Now Playing at The Keller Auditorium
This production is a “gender-switched” revival from the original Stephen Sondheim/George Furth Musical from the mid-1990s. The music, composed by the legendary Stephen Sondheim, was nothing short of exceptional.
Here’s how it came to be: Broadway and film Producer Chris Harper was in Portland during 2016 when his twins were born 10 weeks premature and were in the NICU for three months. Every day as Chris walked to the hospital he listened to the song from COMPANY “Being Alive” sung by Adrian Lester. He says it gave him courage in a time of uncertainty, and at that time he began to flip the script by wondering “What would it be like if Bobbie was a 35 year old woman?”
The orchestra, led by a talented conductor, flawlessly captured the nuances of Sondheim’s intricate score. Each song was a masterpiece in itself, blending humor, wit, and profound insight into relationships and modern urban life. “Being Alive,” performed with raw emotion by the lead actress, resonated deeply and left the audience in awe.
Speaking of the actors, the cast of “Company” was stellar. The protagonist, Bobbie, played by Britney Coleman, was charismatic yet vulnerable, navigating the complexities of love and commitment with effortless charm. Her interactions with the cast were both relatable and entertaining, showcasing a range of dynamics .
The supporting cast was equally impressive. The actresses portraying Bobbie’s boyfriends (Jacob Dickey as Andy, Tyler Hardwick as PJ and David Socolar as Theo) each brought a distinct personality to their roles, infusing the characters with humor and depth. Their ensemble numbers, such as “You Could Drive a Person Crazy,” were executed with precision and comedic timing that had the audience rolling with laughter.
The choreography was really impressive. They had these dance numbers that had a contemporary flair that complemented the modern setting of the show. fitting perfectly with the whole vibe of the show. Whether it was a big group dance or a quiet moment between two characters, the moves told a story all on their own and made the whole thing even more exciting.
The way they put everything together was just amazing. The show flowed really well from one part to the next. It was funny when it needed to be, and there were these moments that really made you feel something deep. The set changes and the lighting were done so smoothly, setting the mood perfectly for each scene. It was all just really well done and made the whole experience even better.
Tickets are available at www.BroadwayinPortland.com
Leaving ‘Company’ in Portland, I felt like I had been on a journey through love, laughter, and life. The actors were brilliant, the music was moving, and the whole production was just so well put together. It’s the kind of show that stays with you, reminding you of the highs and lows of relationships and the beauty of a night out at the theater.
