by Alicia Gibson
Staff Writer
How many people really know who they are, or who they want to become? In the “Company” the main character, Bobby, is in search of that very question.
The University of La Verne’s Theatre Arts Department will present “Company,” a musical comedy by Stephen Sondheim, as its major production in November.
“Sondheim is America’s greatest working writer,” said Dr. David Flaten, chair of the Theatre Arts Department. Sondheim is best known for his lyrics to “West Side Story.”
The Broadway production of “Company” first opened on April 26, 1970, at the Alvin Theater in New York City. The performances were produced and directed by Harold Prince and ran 690 performances before closing on Jan. 1, 1972.
The Broadway production won six Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Director. It was also honored by winning the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Musical.
La Verne has no intention of trying to compete or even compare with the Broadway version of “Company.” Instead, they will perform in their own unique way.
“We have our own version and style,” said Jerry Fulner, freshman theater major.
The musical comedy is set on Bobby’s 35th birthday. He begins to wonder why he is not married and if he is ready for the commitment. Although, he says he is happy, he notices that most of the people around him are either married or in the process of getting married. The musical takes place in Bobby’s mind as he looks at different friends and their relationships and marriages. He tries to understand what he wants out of life, and how to obtain it.
Paul and Amy played by freshmen Jerry Fulner and Jodi Tanaka are just one of Bobby’s coupled friends whom Bobby admires. Paul and Amy are about to be married when Amy begins having doubts. “Paul will do anything for Amy,” said Fulner.
This is just one couple that Bobby examines to see what exactly he wants to get out of his own life.
This 1970 musical does not have a linear plot line, but instead a development of character. Bobby comes to understand who he really is and tries to answer the question of whether marriage is necessary to live a happy and fulfilled life.
“I think it’s a really good script. We really work well together,” said Tanaka.
“Company” is directed by Dr. Flaten. “I’m having a great time working with David Flaten. He’s a lot different than any other directors I’ve worked with. He makes you work, and he doesn’t let you rest,” said Tanaka.
The main character, Bobby, is played by freshman Dustin Lorentz. Other supporting cast members include freshmen Ian Gratz, who plays Harry, Jessica Wortherspoon (Sarah), Jennifer Holindrake (Susan), Lehi Dowell (Larry), Christine Rivera (Marta) and Alicia Hester (Kathy). Also in “Company” are junior Tom Moese (Peter), seniors Baker Eatmon (David) and Jennifer Phillips (April), alumna Tracy Governatori (Jenny) and academic CAPA adviser Susan Wilson (Joanne). The music is directed by Dr. Reed Gratz, professor of music.
Musicals are not very common at ULV. “We hope to do more musicals in the future,” said Dr. Flaten.
“This is a leap for La Verne, but we have an awesome and very talented cast. It should be a great show,” said Lorentz.
“Company” opens Tuesday, Nov. 18, at 7:30 p.m. and will run every night through Saturday, Nov. 22. The final show will be a matinee on Sunday, Nov. 23, at 2:30 p.m.
“I hope people will come and have an enjoyable experience and learn something about themselves and our culture,” said Dr. Flaten.
Alicia Gibson
