Review: Saturday  Night Fever: The Musical at La Comedia Dinner Theatre

Review: Saturday  Night Fever: The Musical at La Comedia Dinner Theatre

There’s no shut downs, masks mandates, or social distancing requirements but a fever is sweeping across the Miami Valley. Symptoms are a strong urge to dance, wanting a disco ball and constantly singing Stayin’ Alive. If you are experiencing two or more of those symptoms you have a case of Saturday Night Fever. There’s no need to isolate. The only cure is to reserve a seat for Saturday  Night Fever: The Musical.

Somehow I’ve survived without ever having seen the movie, maybe it explains why I have no dance moves . So I went in not knowing the storyline, which added an extra layer of enjoyment. The jury is still out on if my dancing is any better.

All the action centers around Tony Manero (Nick Valle), who lives for the weekends when he thrives on the dance floor at the clubs. Valle has more moves than a U-haul and provides strong vocals as well. Though, small in frame, he carries the weight of the role with ease.

Tony sets his sights on achieving success by winning a couples dance competition. First he has to convince Stephanie Mangano (Allie Armontrout) to be his partner. After first resisting, they start to bond, but not without some challenges. Armontrouts dance moves are as flawless as her voice, both of which result in beautiful creations.

Never far behind from Tony are his friends, whether atop the bridge to empty their bladders or trying to flirt, the group gels well together. If I had any polyester outfits, I’d hang with them. The group is comprised of two La Comedia regulars and two making their debut. One of the familiar faces is Mr. Dependable, Colin Cranstoun as Gus. Cranstoun is like duct tape, wherever you put it, is made stronger. Even in a full body cast, Cranstoun still delivers. Also, continuing his streak of appearances is Jonathan Pendergrass, who never disappoints. Pendergrass plays Bobby, whose sweet nature is likeable and is embroiled in a conflict with his girlfriend. Pendergrass may ultimately cause some weeping. They look so comfortable, nobody would ever guess that Aiden Dail as Double J and Jack Issler as Joey are both new to the La Comedia Stage.

The strong supporting cast also includes the radiant Mallory Georgia Marie, whose physical and vocal beauty both shine bright, as Candy. Her counterpart is the charismatic Neil Rushnock as Monty. Nobody does a Brooklyn accent better than Allison Gabert, but she could make a mute sound divine. Furthermore, there’s Camille Daigle as Annette, who aspires to be Tony’s partner on the dance floor and elsewhere. She leads to a very tense and tragic moment atop the bridge. And as Tony’s parents, John Dorney and Leanne Greenberg bicker like a real married couple. Their scenes are minimal but stand out. The rest of the ensemble all do great, especially with the impressive choreography.

Credit also to the stage design team for creating a multi-level set, that allows the action to continue without delays. The buffet includes some more new tasty sensations to enjoy, including chicken Marsala and spaghetti.

Also wanted to mention the La Comedia website has recently been updated. It now includes the cast list, the full menu and the ability to purchase tickets online.

Saturday Night Fever is contagious, as you will want to tell all your friends.

More info: Saturday  Night Fever: The Musical

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