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PTP Hits Comedy Gold with 'The Producers'
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PTP Hits Comedy Gold with 'The Producers'
SOUTHERN MARYLAND - 7/10/2010
By Andrea Hein
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It’s hard to imagine how one could go right with a musical that features two men conspiring to commit fraud, gaggles of dancing ladies, sex-hungry old women and a Nazi who loves pigeons, but that’s just what happens with Port Tobacco Player’s rendition of Mel Brook’s “The Producers.” With its large cast, dozens of costume changes, intricately built sets and live orchestra, PTP has produced a professional-quality show for Southern Md. theater patrons. The musical is directed by Brooke L. Howells, who worked closely with producers Mike Gahan and Kira Sanders, and music director James D. Watson, to make the show a success. The play's large ensemble works well together, seamlessly creating a variety of scenes throughout the play.
“The cast has worked really hard and gone everywhere that I’ve asked them to go,” said Howells, who has directed two main stage shows and two one-acts for PTP. She also choreographed the show's several dance numbers and has choreographed several past PTP productions.
This particular production holds a special place in her heart, however: “Susan Stroman is an idol of mine,” said Howells. “I was really inspired by how she took over directing “The Producers” on Broadway from her husband, who was diagnosed with and succumbed to terminal cancer.” Once Howells actually saw “The Producers,” she was excited to direct it herself.
The premise of the show is simple: washed up Broadway producer Max Bialystock convinces public accountant Leo Bloom to help him produce the worst musical ever. The idea is that they will raise two million dollars from investors (much more than they need) and then when the musical fails, they will get to keep the money. They set out to find the worst play ever written, which turns out to be a Nazi propaganda piece called “Springtime for Hitler.” The two producers hire the worst director and actors possible to ensure the play’s failure, resulting in hilarity as stereotypes are flaunted and satire ensues.
“The Producers” is a production well worth the trip to PTP. It runs from July 9 to August 1, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. For more information, please visit PTP at www.ptplayers.com
All photographs were taken by Dave Bayles.
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