LP Productions scores a success

June 6, 2013 · 0 Comments

Enter the Grace Tipling Hall in Shelburne, and one is treated to an abundance of art gracing the walls.

Meanwhile, in the past several weeks within the Hall, audiences were fortunate to view “Blood Brothers”, LP Stage Productions latest presentation, enjoy the artistry of an extremely talented cast and crew, well deserving the standing ovations.

From the first musical number, when actors hidden in the audience spontaneously rose from their seats to join the chorus onstage, the viewers were enthralled.

Director Alison Port with producer Dale Lundy crafted a play that bursts into a kaleidoscope of activity best seen in the melodies and dance of a multitude of carefree children birthed into a poverty stricken family.

The activity underscores a heartwarming story of two brothers separated at birth, one raised in poverty, the other with wealth. The two distinct scenes, set ingeniously on one stage, held stories dramatically narrated by David Lamble.

For Eddie (Mackenzie Seymour) and Mickey (Daniel Reale), motherhood is shared by two vibrant actresses. Samantha Russell and Elizabeth Glenday are drawn together by an unexpected bond, one forged in the blood of twin brothers, roles that brim with love, turmoil, passion and tragedy. Each emotion demands a sensitive talent, each actor succeeds.

Despite the merriment and mischief found in the remarkably agile and musical chorus of children, particularly Sammy (Nick Rose) and Linda (Danielle Gamache) there lies an undercurrent of tension born when extreme poverty meets extreme wealth.

Kudos not only to the cast, but to the stage crew which successfully created both moods with artistry found with lighting, music and a set design enfolding two stories, in conflict with each other.

The clarinets, trumpets, guitars and drum played through the artistry of musical director Josh Priess add a glorious backdrop for children’s games: cowboys and Indians, tag, and childish pranks; yet, mischief erupts to mayhem, underscored by a disastrous romance, rebellion, and defiance. In unexpected fashion, the action ends as it begins, within the audience itself. When the police burst in on the performers and thanks to an expansive theatre setting, on the audience itself the theatre erupts with applause not only due to the acting but for the ingenuity and creativity found in such a presentation.

Only an extremely talented production company can hold it all together, bringing out the best of an enthralling play. Only a theatre as diverse and multifaceted as Grace Tipling Concert Hall can house such talent in such a wonderful style.

One has the opportunity to see them both with their season finale, “Miracle on 34th Street”, a classic favorite to end the 2013 season.

Stay tuned for further information!

By Anne Ritchie