“Marvelous…” – That’s What Oil Lamp Theater Is
By Cate Rees-Hessel
Once again, Oil Lamp Theater in Glenview brings us a fabulous production; “The Marvelous Wonderettes” is a fun, insightful, and campy show. It reminded me just a bit of the play “Vanities”, but with an uplifting and empowering happy ending. I love the very encouraging sisterhood played out on the stage. The cast consists of four uniquely beautiful and talented women: Cindy Lou, Suzy, Betty Jean, and Missy. They play the awkward high school girls with complete accuracy. The transition in the second act, at the reunion ten years after the prom, is flawlessly executed – in their first time together on-stage for a decade, we see very clearly the changes of maturity in the characters. For instance, Cindy Lou’s desire to be referred to as “Cynthia”.
Songs from the 50’s and 60’s eras the two parts of the play are set in are used to tell the story with complete aplomb. Vocals are incredibly strong, and appropriately simplistic choreography is well done. The set truly brings the audience into a late-fifties high school gymnasium decorated for the big dance. There is even a photo booth in the lobby for audience prom pictures. I loved the music – oldies well sung and familiar. The songs from that time are extremely memorable and upbeat.
I can’t say enough good things about the costumes; straight from third period Home Economics class, Missy deserves an A plus for these colorful ensembles. The second act variations on the outfits carries through the ladies’ personal styles and color choices. Throughout the performance, the girls demonstrate their school spirit by adorably depicting Springfield High’s mascot, the chipmunk. This musical is interactive, allowing an audience vote for the coveted prom queen crown, and a chance to be the dreamy Mr. Lee, a favorite pizza-eating teacher. The results of the vote are tallied by French instructor Miss McPhereson (another audience member chosen by the cast). The Mr. Lee selected the night we saw the play was really a good sport, with perhaps a future on the stage. Other comedic moments are hilarious, too – the use of the word “butt-head” brings on the laughs, as does a spelling faux pas panic from the writing on a moveable chalkboard.
Director Lauren Katz never falls into stereotypical vintage high school musical traps – she directs with freshness and believability. Daniel Friedman’s lighting design is perfectly subtle and realistic, pepping up when “Ritchie” struts his stuff for his squeeze. This incredible theatrical work was originally performed in Milwaukee, grew to off-Broadway, and now has three sequels. I am hoping Oil Lamp might decide to bring us the rest of the series in the future.
In closing, I am a sucker for anything that shows a happy ending, and this “marvelous” musical brings it. The show closes on a sincere, not sappy, note, with refreshing realism. Oil Lamp Theater is downtown Glenview’s theatrical gem – professional productions, a comfortable lobby complete with the signature lighting, yummy chocolate chip cookies, and a bar with reasonable prices. The staff is friendly and welcoming. Oil Lamp is a flawless theatregoing experience. Don’t miss “The Marvelous Wonderettes”, extended through July 20th, to be followed by the classic “Side by Side” by Sondheim, beginning on August 15th. For tickets or more information, please visit www.oillamptheater.org.
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