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"I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change" was a long running off-Broadway production with a book by New Jersey native Joe DiPietro and music by Jimmy Roberts. The adventurous Buzz Theater Productions presents this entertaining, well-sung, very funny musical at the Preakness Reformed Church in Wayne, NY this weekend.
The production judiciously sprinkled with current references to Tinder and Kim Davis explores dating, marriage, sex, parents, parenthood in 19 scenes and songs. The show begins with a blazingly harmonious “Cantana for a First Date” which makes one yearn for more group numbers that blend the six melodious voices of performers Kristin Auteri, Matthew Haines, Greg Paradis, Mary Kate Portera, James Gerard Russo, and Sarah Strickland. Each is in fine voice and gets moments to shine throughout the entertaining evening.
The show explores many aspects and nuances of relationships from moving them forward, the insecurity of a follow up phone call, lurching towards sex, and starting over the course of two hours plus intermission. Along the way there are brilliant songs about self-image “A Stud and a Babe” (sung by James and Mary Kate), a fabulous “Always a Bridesmaid” sung in country twang (Kristin), and a hilariously true song about a family driving together. Greg and Sarah explore dating after death of a partner in a moving song of compromise. Matt and James amusing excuse stereotypical male behavior in “Why? Cause I’m a Guy.”
Every cast member has stand out moments showing off their comedic skills and strong voices. The evening moves spryly and is well directed by Jo Ann Ventor and the skillful musical direction is done by Greg Paradis. Their work shines with well cast numbers that never flag. Two musicians keep the evening bouncing along – keyboardist Kevin M. Lynch and violinist Anthony Bevilacqua. This is a poignant, well sung, hilarious evening of relationship truths and foibles. If you can't laugh or relate to 'I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change' you may not have a pulse.
Buzz Theater Productions launched earlier this year with a scintillating production of “Next to Normal” and their follow up “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” illustrates their passion for shows that are unique. They have a touch for great casting, strong musical direction, and spry entertaining evenings of theater. Brave the weekend’s elements and you’ll be rewarded with a richly produced production that everyone will find something in which they can relate about relationships. I look forward to future theatrical endeavors from Buzz.
Performances continue Saturday and Sunday at The Preakness Reformed Church. More information at www.buzztheatreproductions.com
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