Through Sun 2/21
Complete this sentence: “IF I’d [fill in the blank], THEN I’d [fill in the blank].” You now have a do-it-yourself version of IF/Then, the current Broadway offering at PlayhouseSquare’s Connor Palace Theatre through Sun 2/21.
Elizabeth, the center of this two-way story, always doubts, always re-thinks her choices (marry, not marry? have a baby, don’t have a baby? speak to that guy, don’t speak to that guy?). After a divorce and a move to New York City (her passion is urban planning) and in the throes of what might be called an early mid-life crisis (she’s in her late 30s), she “splits” into two alternative universes, both shown in intermingling sequences. As “Liz” she sports glasses, as “Beth” she does not.
(At intermission we all reviewed who did what to whom and bonded over slight confusions.)
As Liz/Beth a vibrant Jackie Burns carries what must be an exhausting star role (Idina “Wicked” Menzel played Elizabeth on Broadway). Too many songs (especially in the first act) by composer Tom Kitt require full-on belting. None are especially memorable and the sound system blasted our ears on opening night (where are my earplugs when I need them?). But Burns (a Lea Michele from Glee lookalike) persevered as she created believeable alternate love/life stories with alternating potential “baby daddies.” There’s old college friend Lucas (a very likeable Anthony Rapp) and doctor/army reservist Josh (an impulsively romantic Matthew Hydzik).
Liz and Beth share gal pal Kate (a spunky, bouncy Tamyra Gay). Others whose lives intersect with Elizabeth include sexy city planner Stephen (Daren A. Herbert). Herbert’s nuanced and richly beautiful voice made Liz’s dithering over her choices more realistic.
Simple, but impressive set design and stage lighting set off very fine dancing by the ensemble (would have loved to have seen more). Applause for choreography to Larry Keigwin, for set design by Mark Wendland, costume design by Emily Rebholz and lighting design by Kenneth Posner. Directed by Michael Greif, with book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey, the show also features Janine DiVita (Anne) and Marc de la Cruz (David).
Bottom Line: This scattershot presentation of possibilities present in life illustrates the concept of billions of alternate realities. Whether or not the computer programmer’s familiar “If/Then” template works is something to dwell on (or not) after you leave the theater. To me seemed like a one-trick pony whose premise wasn’t enough to sustain the whole show, especially without a name-brand star to attract fans.
Tickets can be purchased by calling 216.241.6000 or going online at playhousesquare.org.
[Written by Laura Kennelly]Cleveland, OH 44115