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| Jordan Paige Kliphon and Cole Brackney photo by Heather DeSousa |
By Jon Holdsworth
In the core of Prescott, Arizona, Suze's Prescott Center for the Arts recently staged a delightful production of the classic romantic comedy She Loves Me, which concluded its run on November 19, 2023. This charming musical, directed by Scott Neese, managed to captivate audiences with its heartwarming narrative, and it owed much of its success to the outstanding performances of the lead actors. The chemistry between the protagonists, played by Jordan Paige Kliphon and Cole Brackney, was palpable and added an extra layer of charm to this romantic tale. The production succeeded in pleasing its viewers, setting the stage for an evening filled with laughter and love.
She Loves Me unfolds in a quaint parfumerie, where two employees, Georg Nowak and Amalia Balash, unknowingly exchange anonymous love letters, despite harboring a strong dislike for each other in person. The story explores the complexities of human relationships, misunderstandings, and the unpredictable nature of love. The plot weaves together humor, romance, and a series of delightful twists that keep the audience engaged from start to finish.
The standout performances of the evening came from Jordan Paige Kliphon as Amalia Balash and Cole Brackney as Georg Nowak. Kliphon's vocals were exceptional, perfectly suited to her character, and her solos, especially the exciting "Vanilla Ice Cream," were unforgettable. Brackney brought integrity and humor to the role of Georg, delivering a stellar performance that had the audience roaring with applause, particularly after his rendition of "She Loves Me." The chemistry between Kliphon and Brackney was undeniable, making the audience genuinely invested in their characters' journey toward love. As the evening progressed, it was evident that the actors were truly enjoying themselves, adding an infectious energy to the production.
While the production had its shining moments, it was not without its flaws. Some supporting and ensemble actors struggled with diction, leading to several moments of confusion, and several characters seemed disconnected from their roles. Despite these issues, director Scott Neese's guidance held the production together, with well-thought-out staging that emphasized key moments in the storyline. However, there were missed opportunities for more intentional comedic moments that could have elevated the overall experience.
The set design by Ed Gates and scenic designer Noelene Patterson successfully transported the audience to the appropriate time period, but minor details could have enhanced the realism of the parfumerie. The props by Dorris Stonebreaker and costumes by Theo Ditto contributed to the immersive setting, grounding the characters in a believable world.
All in all, Suze's Prescott Center for the Arts' production of She Loves Me was a fun-filled event that left the audience buzzing with satisfaction. Despite some shortcomings, the outstanding performances of the lead actors, the effective direction, and the overall charm of the production made it a night to remember. This rom-com, with its heartwarming storyline and memorable tunes, provided a delightful escape for theater enthusiasts, leaving them happy and fulfilled at the end of the night.
Theatergoers can look forward to their upcoming production of Lights, in December. For more information, head to https://www.prescottartcenter.org.
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