Allentowns Civic Theatre has a charming return to live theater with its light-hearted production of the 1970s era musical "Theyre Playing Our Song" at Civics 19th Street Theatre.
The show is a collaboration between playwright Neil Simon, composer Marvin Hamlisch and lyricist Carol Bayer Sager; and is inspired by the real-life personal and professional relationship of Hamlisch and Sager.
Vernon is an established composer who is happiest when behind his piano, when Sonia, an off-beat, up and coming lyricist literally bursts into his life.
Director William Sanders puts an appropriately light touch on this buoyant and uplifting comedy.
Ryan Doncsecz is cautious and tentative as the repressed composer who compulsively dictates into a tape recorder.
Rebecca Pieper brings a whirlwind of energy to the stage as the impulsive and chaotic Sonia, providing a stark contrast to Doncsecz static and restrained Vernon.
It is as this mismatched couple finds themselves in an unlikely relationship, that drives the witty humor of the piece.
Hamlisch's score is poppy and pleasant, moving the story of Vernon and Sonias charmingly uncertain love affair forward.
Piepers Sonia is a flaky force of nature. She is eccentric, pushy, and chronically late.
A running gag is Sonia gets her clothes from closed stage productions. She first meets Vernon in a dress from "The Cherry Orchard," and when they go out dancing, shes in a shimmery "Pippin" costume, all brought to whimsical life by costume designer Will Morris.
Pieper is a strong and talented singer and is affecting singing songs like "If He Really Knew Me" and "I Still Believe in Love."
Doncsecz is good too on songs like "Fallin'" and in satisfying duets with Pieper.
Adding some depth to the songs are a Greek chorus of voices in both Vernon and Sonias heads who come to life onstage.
These voices - Mackenzie Lynch, Kate Pistone and Kyla Reese for Sonia and Luke Hauck, Jason Roth, Joshua Schwirtz for Vernon “ add an enjoyably playful note to the musical numbers with harmonies and movement.
A highlight is the touching "Fill In the Words" delightfully accompanied on tinkly toy pianos by the voices.
Also memorable is the bouncy and exuberant title song, which is sung without warning whenever Sonia or Vernon hear their songs on the radio.
Adding tension is the repeated interruption of critical scenes by phone calls from Leon, Sonias troubled former lover. So much is Leon discussed, he seems an actual third character even though he never appears on stage.
Scenic designer Sam Roffs fun and functional set is pleasantly retro and framed by an oversized record.
A six-piece band provides spot-on and professional accompaniment for the singers.
Performances of "Theyre Playing Our Song" continues 7:30 p.m. July 30 and 31.
Doors open at 7 p.m. and due to Covid-19 restrictions, seats will be assigned according to the size of the party and when the order was placed. Masks must be worn while inside the theater.
Tickets are $30 for adults and $27 for students and seniors.
For tickets go to www.civictheatre.com or call 610-432-8903.