"Carmelina" - Musicals In Mufti Series at The York Theatre Company - Through February 3rd

Original Poster
"Carmelina"
1979

It is a truism in the world of theater that "there are no small parts - only small actors." Never has that cliche been more true than in the case of the current enchanting production of "Carmelina," the opening salvo in this year's York Theatre Musicals in Mufti series. The role of Roberto, a humble fisherman.s son (Antonio Cipriano) does not offer much in the way of solo opportunities throughout the musical, but it is crucial, in that Roberto opens the play by introducing the first strains of "It's Time For A Love Song." Roberto enters from the rear of the house, accompanying himself on the guitar, and meanders down the aisle and onto the stage. Mr. Cipriano's voice and stage presence are such that with the opening note, I turned to see where the sound was coming from and who might be producing such perfect music. From that moment, I was drawn into this fisherman's net, and into the charming web woven by Alan Jay Lerner's story and lyrics and the melodious music of Burton Lane.

Antonio Cipriano as Roberto
"Carmelina"
Musicals In Mufti Series
The York Theatre Company
Through February 3rd

The plot is based upon a 1968 film, "Buona Sera, Mrs. Campbell," starring Gina Lollobrigida. The story line is remarkably similar to that of "Mama Mia," with a young woman having conceived a daughter during wartime, and not knowing which of three men may be the father.

For this staged reading limited production, Director Michael Leeds has assembled a stellar cast, ably supported by Musical Director David Hancock Turner on piano, and Joseph Wallace on bass.

Carmelina (Andrea Burns) shimmers when she embraces the beautiful songs written for the protagonist. In particular, "Someone In April," which she shares with her cook, Rosa (the brilliant Anne L. Nathan) is memorable. Not only is the song lovely, but it brilliantly provides back story to explain how the sweet sixteen year old Carmelina could have had three lovers in the course of one short month.The role of Rosa is written and acted in a way that brought to mind the comic relief provided by Juliet's nurse in "Romeo and Juliet."

In order to protect her reputation among her pious neighbors in the small Neapolitan village, Carmelina invents a story of a husband, American GI Lt. Eddie Campbell, who died heroically in the war. In the meanwhile, she has convinced each of the three soldiers with whom she shared a night that he has a daughter who needs support. She has been receiving three checks each month for seventeen years!

Vittorio (Joey Sorge) has been in love with Carmelina forever, but she refuses to accept his offers of marriage in order to preserve the charade of being a grieving widow. Mr. Sorge gets to showcase his powerful voice in "Carmelina," "You're A Woman," and "I Will Kill Her," as well as a reprise of "It's Time For A Love Song."

The three "father's" are part of a regiment of veterans who come from the U.S. to revisit the site of their war service in Italy. The three actors, Evan Harrington, Timothy John Smith, and Jim Stanek really shine as they harmonize in "One More Walk Around the Garden," a highlight of this delightful score.

Jim Stanek as Smith
Timothy John Smith as Karzinski
Evan HArrington as Braddock
"Carmelina"
Musicals In Mufti Series
The York Theatre Company
Through February 3rd

Carmelina's daughter, Gia (MaryJoanna Grisso) has been off at finishing school in Switzerland, but makes a surprise visit home after Roberto calls to tell her the Americans are coming. She can't wait to interrogate them about her war hero father. Naturally, complications ensue! Ms. Grisso has her vocal moment in the sun with the lovely "Smiling at Me."

MaryJoanna Grisso as Gia with her three "fathers"
"Carmelina"
Musicals In Mufti Series
The York Theatre Company
Through February 3rd

This production has as Scenic Consultant James Morgan, and Lighting Design by Steve O'Shea. If you want to see this delightful little gem, this coming weekend will provide the last opportunities. The 2019 Musicals in Mufti Series continues with "The Day Before Spring" (February 9-17) and "Lolita, My Love" (February 23-March 3).

Cast
"Carmelina"
Musicals In Mufti Series
The York Theatre Company
Through February 3rd

Enjoy!

Al