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Never Met a Man I Didn't Like
By Melinda Schupmann
Fullerton Civic Light Opera's production of The Will Rogers Follies is a genial and pleasant outing in this season of civic light opera offerings. Incorporating pretty girls, some nice musical numbers, and a cast who seem to be enjoying themselves, it acquits itself well. The main weakness of the show is that it is just so darned nice, it has no serious punch. Even Rogers' death in an airplane crash seems to be only a tiny blip in the storyline. But then, that seems to be the way it was designed.
Modeling itself after the Ziegfield Follies' shows of the 1930's, it portrays the loveable icon, Will Rogers (Wayne Bryan.), as he recounts his rise from modest beginnings to national treasure. The story of his courtship and marriage to Betty Blake (Tracy Lore), glimpses of his cantankerous old father, Clem (Stephen Reynolds), and the many shows he appeared in before he found his niche, is simply a recipe for Americana.
Bryan is very likeable, though less like Rogers himself than might be desired. He tries for the "aw, shucks" mode, but is a pretty strong performer and can't quite master the sly drawl of his real-life counterpart. He, nevertheless, infuses charm and a strong voice into the mix. Lore gives a good try at overcoming the one-dimensional nature of her part, and her "No Man Left for Me" adds to the quality of the show.
The young chorus also are energetic and polished, creating crowd-pleaser numbers with "Powder Puff Ballet,", "Will-A-Mania." And "Our Favorite Son."
Particularly notable is the insouciant Raeleen Juliano as Ziegfield's favorite, the chorus girl. Her scene-stealing strut makes her a terrific foil for the more solid characters.
Cy Coleman's music with lyrics by Comden and Green and the best of Tommy Tune's original choreography are capably incorporated by director and choreographer Roger Castellano. Some fancy roping, an Indian spirit dance, and very personable youngsters playing the Rogers children give the show good cheer.
The Will Rogers Follies, Fullerton Civic Light Opera, Plummer Auditorium, 201 East Chapman, Fullerton. (714) 879-1732. Februrary 22, 23, 24, March 1, 2, 3 at 8; February 18, 25, March 3 & 4 at 2; February 25 at 7. Closes March 4. $16-38.
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