I went to see the Irish Repertory Theatre's production of MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS last week after a long hectic day in the studio, and boy it was just what the doctor ordered. I left smiling and singing "Clang, Clang, Clang went the trolley..."

I can see why it has received such great reviews -- it is an utterly charming show. There is a three-piece orchestra (in period costume) led by John Bell (in a very cute bowler hat!) on piano. I really love it when I get the chance to hear acoustic music. The theatre isn't huge (about 140 seats I believe) but it was packed and the acoustics were great.

The sets were minimal but with a little old-fashioned air balloon decoration here and there, and wonderful costumes, you really felt like you were back there. It is set from the Fall of 1903 to the Spring of 1904 and the opening of the Louisiana Purchase Exposition. The story is pretty simple, but it allows the chemistry of the cast, and the gorgeous songs to shine through. Girls get boys, Father threatens to move everyone to New York, and there is a happy ending.

MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS has a book by Hugh Wheeler (based on The Kensington Stories by Sally Benson and the MGM motion picture Meet Me In St. Louis) and songs by Hugh martin and Ralph Blane. This production was directed by Charlotte Moore, with Musical Direction by John Bell and Choreography by Barry NcNabb.

Because the cast was so great, and because I was impressed that there were a whopping twelve of them in an off-Broadway show, I'm going to list them all here:

Katie: Becky Barta
Warren Sheffield: Doug Boes
Rose Smith: Merideth Kaye Clark
Lucille Ballard: Kerry Conte
John Truitt: Colin Donnell
Esther Smith: Bonnie Fraser
Mr. Alonzo Smith: John Hickok
Grandpa Prophater: George S. Irving
Mrs. Anna Smith: Sarah Pfisterer
Agnes: Danielle Piacentile
Tootie: Gabrielle Piacentile
Lon Smith: Ashley Robinson

The orchestra:

Piano: John Bell
Violin: Sue Maskaleris
Cello: Melanie Mason

Hey, who can frown when the cast is singing and dancing to "Skip to My Lou"? Not me!

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