MTG's 'Bingo!' musical is all fun and games
Before this show, I had no idea about the history of the game of bingo or the many ways you can play it.
I never doubted the bonds players could form, but this show took it to a whole new level. “Bingo” won a standing ovation from a preview audience Thursday night at the Musical Theatre Guild's William A. Lehnerd Performance Hall. The show even features the opportunity to play a game or two.
It was a dark and stormy night, but the trio of friends was determined to get to their bingo game.
Their first number, “Girls Night Out,” shows three friends dancing with umbrellas attempting to brave a storm. These friends have not only overcome storms, but weathered life together. Vern, Patsy and Honey are played by Paula Baptiste Floyd, Tammy Erkman and Davlin Smith.
Next, “Anyone Can Play Bingo” introduced Sam and Minnie, played by Eric Snyder and Cindy West, who run the bingo hall. West's accent and homey ways were endearing and sweet. She was a true treasure smoothing ruffled feathers and making people mind the rules of the game.
Great vocals complimented the sometimes silly, sometimes sweet lyrics for Smith in her role of Honey shown in her flashback scene, but more so in “Gentleman Caller,” her heartfelt pitch for the affections of Sam. Smith portrayed the sassy sexpot of the bunch and dug deep to master the part. The object of her affection played by Snyder was more than willing to play along.
Obsessively superstitious Patsy was delightful as she explained the nature of her superstitions in “I Still Believe In You.” Erkman's comical way to turn a phrase and weave the physical comedy together with clear vocals never disappoints.
Bernice, the buddy who was left behind, played by Robin Kriley showed her amazing pipes in “What's a Little Rain.” Her comedy and energy were enjoyable in the “I've Made Up My Mind” toward the end of the show.
In the second half, Floyd as Vern offered a perfect performance in “Swell” which was almost written for her deep bluesy voice. As the ringleader of the group, her acerbic sarcastic nature and heckling of the audience was tremendous fun.
Newcomer to the Musical Theatre Guild, Ariana O'Donnell portrayed Allison, the daughter of Bernice. Her “Ratched's Lament” had the audience in stitches. If there was a song about health care, O'Donnell was the one to do it. She capably conveyed the angst of a daughter trying to fix her mom's friendship. Her transition from hesitation to being one of the girls was spot on.
Gambling with friendship is addressed in “B4” which had amazing harmonies and was filled with bingo double entendres. The flashbacks throughout the show are both entertaining and enlightening.
Director Patrick Erkman should be proud of the accomplishment, well cast and well played. It really is all fun and games at the MTG during the run of “Bingo!”
Offerings can sell out for the small venue, but tickets are available now for $17 online at www.mtgbutler.org.
