Summer musicals have long been the highlight of the season at the Chemainus Theatre and this year’s offering is no exception.
In fact, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels may just be the all-time favourite. Patrons and reviewers alike are singing the praises of this fast-paced musical with its energetic and flawlessly executed dance numbers.
“Dirty Rotten Scoundrels has had a phenomenal first few weeks of its summer run with absolutely rave reviews,” says the Theatre’s marketing director Michelle Vogelgesang. “Several people are saying it is their favourite Chemainus Theatre production ever.”
A Google reviewer concurred. “An amazing show that keeps a smile on your face for the whole performance. The singing dancing and acting all excellent with a fabulous cast. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is a must see if you are in the area. We enjoyed the dinner as well.”
North Cowichan mayor Rob Douglas had praise for Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.
“The cast is incredibly talented, delivering sharp comedic timing that kept the audience laughing through the entire 2.5-hour performance. The production team did an amazing job pulling this all together. I highly recommend catching this one,” Douglas commented.
“Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is one of the most successful musical adaptations of a movie that I have ever seen,” commented director Naomi Costain. “I loved the movie, and while maintaining the light-hearted story, the musical writers created a fast-paced, engaging show with incredible new songs.”
Costain says while this show is about con artists, there is surprising depth to the plot and characters.
“What I find particularly engaging is how much delight they take in the game of it all. It is pure, unadulterated fun for them, and that can’t help but be infectious.
“I think the audience will find some satisfaction watching their high jinks that lead to sticky situations and seeing how they try to get out of it,” adds Costain.
“The show is full of ridiculous shenanigans, a little bit of love, and a whole lot of laughter. What more could you want?”
Based on the beloved 1988 film, the story follows Lawrence Jameson (Jeff Madden), a polished playboy who fleeces wealthy socialites like Muriel (Seana-Lee Wood) and Jolene (Danica Kobayashi) on the French Riviera with the help of his accomplice – and local Chief of Police –Andre (Raugi Yu).
Their effortless operation is disrupted by the arrival of Freddy Benson (Kevin McLachlan), a scrappy, small-time grifter with big ambitions. When the two clash, a wager is struck: the first to swindle $50,000 from “Soap Queen” heiress Christine Colgate (Synthia Yusuf) wins the town!
This production follows two sold-out summer musicals at Chemainus Theatre Festival, 9-5: The Musical and Footloose.
The production features a powerhouse ensemble including Jennifer Lynch, Matt Montgomery, Tia Ferlizza, Stephen Thakkar, Niah Davis, and Dustyn Forbes, with Sean Baker and Marija Danyluk as Swings.
The cast is supported by a veteran creative team led by Choreographer Makayla Moore and Musical Director Heather Burns, with Set Designer Hans Saefkow, Costume Designer Patricia Reilly, and Lighting Designer Nicole Lamb. Stage Management Team of Yvonne Yip, Kelsey Cain, Even Ren, Jessica Schacht, Lourdess Sumners, and Gabrielle Marcolin.
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels runs until August 23.
For ticket information visit chemainusthreatrefestival.ca or call 250-246-9820