Who would think a murderer could be so charming'
But in the Pennsylvania Playhouses production of "A Gentlemans Guide to Love & Murder" that runs through Oct. 24, the main character of Monty Navarro is so appealing and likable, you find yourself hoping hell get away with murder.
The Bethlehem theaters production of the musical comedy is engaging all around with strong performances from the leads and a deft hand by director Rody Gilkeson, all backed by a solid ensemble.
Patrick Mertz is perfectly cast as Monty, a young man down on his luck who learns he is a member of the aristocratic D'Ysquith family and ninth in line to be the next Earl of Highhurst Castle. Mertz conveys an appealing earnestness as the lost heir who also wants to avenge his late mother who was disowned by the family for eloping with a Spanish musician.
Mertz has a lovely tenor voice that serves well on songs like "Foolish to Think" and "Sibella," as well as impish comedic timing. He definitely anchors the show well.
Equally impressive is Christopher DImperio who plays the entire D'Ysquith family with gusto. DImperio is memorable in each of his nine roles whether playing the detestable Asquith D'Ysquith Jr. or the kindly but doddering Lord Asquith D'Ysquith Sr.. His roles also include an incredibly hammy actress, a flamboyant gay man, a bodybuilder with a hilarious muscle suit and a tipsy pastor.
He also sings numerous songs as the different characters, some of which are show highlights. He and Mertz are hilarious in the double-entendre "Better With a Man," and both men add nice harmonies with Alyssa Steiner as a D'Ysquiths mistress in "Poison in My Pocket." DImperio hits a memorable high note as Lady Hyacinth D'Ysquith, who is searching for a philanthropic cause to bolster her own stature.
He even steels the scene as a dying beekeeper in the background as Mertz and Elizabeth Marsh-Gilkeson as the sweet Phoebe DYsquith employs her operatic voice on the duet "Inside Out."
Kimberly Mertz is humorously self-absorbed as Montys love interests Sibella Hallward, and is in fine voice on "I Dont Know What Id Do Without You."
She, Marsh-Gilkeson and Mertz are hilarious in the comedic "Ive Decided to Marry You" when Monty is literally torn between the two women.
The ensemble is tons of fun in numbers like "Prologue: A Warning to the Audience" with a notable bass solo by Deven Windisch and "Why Are All the DYsquiths Dying'" which features whimsical choreography by the sunglass-clad group. Kudos to choreographer Megan Kohler Viscomi.
Geri Kery is just right in the small, but pivotal role of Miss Shingle.
There are eye-catching period costume by Todd Burkel and an effective set by Brett Oliveira that recreates an early 1900s era British Music Hall, complete with a proscenium stage.
Performances are 7:30 p.m. Oct. 9, 15-16 and 22-23; and 3 p.m. Oct. 10, 17 and 24. Tickets are $25 for adults and $22 for seniors and students.
The playhouse is asking audience members who are not fully vaccinated to wear a mask for the duration of the show.
For tickets go to www.paplayhouse.org, or call 610-865-6665.