Pines Dinner Theatre opened it 2013 season with ‘Why Do Fools Fall in Love'’, a sugar-coated, (I’m thinking lollypops!) all-female musical.
The storyline, ‘All life’s problems are caused by a man.”, is the perfect device to string together myriad classic 1960’s doo wop songs.
Three girlfriends come together to celebrate their friend Millie’s (Gwen Swanson Vigorito) upcoming wedding with an impromptu bachelorette party, unaware that there is trouble a’brewing in the relationship.
As the evening and imbibing go on, the discussion of boyfriends and disappointing love affairs become perfect segue to these songs. Each of the women has shining moments in the production. Vigorito plays Millie with wonderful cluelessness as she sings “Baby I’m Yours” and “You Don’t Have to Say You’re Sorry.”
Dee Dee, comically played by Stacey Yoder, has a penchant for sweets, which turn her into a raving loonie. Her renditions of “My Boy Lollipop” and “I Will Follow Him” suit her... just like candy.
Stacey Bechtel, as Flo, seems the more common-sense, mature woman of the group, although her love life also has its complications, shown as she sings ”He’s A Rebel” and “Going Out of My Head.”
Lauren Eitzenberger, Sally, is the bad/good girl of the group and plays it to the hilt. Her love life has also not been without its problems, as she sings “Hurts So Bad” and “Where Did I Go Wrong'”
The pink and green set design represent the perfect color choices for the 60’s. The costumes by Carline Blatt are highly evocative of the era, and complement the set.nicely.
Oliver Blatt, director and choreographer, brought out the best of the talents of the four women and made the entire production enjoyable. I especially liked the variations of the wedding march by the back-up singers.
The very enjoyable “Why Do Fools Fall In Love'” does reaffirm that, during life’s struggles, friendship will always endure!
‘Why Do Fools Fall In Love'’ runs January 25 through March 10, 2013. Matinees: Thursday and Sunday, 12:30 p.m. dinner, 2:00 p.m. show. Evenings are Friday and Saturday, 6:30 p.m. dinner, 8:00 p.m. show.
Ticket price for dinner and show is $48.50.
Pines Dinner Theatre is located at 448 North 17th Street, Allentown, PA 18104. For more information call (610) 433-2333 or visit www.pinesdinnertheatre.com