The past two summers, reviewers from the Eastern Massachusetts Association of Community Theatres (EMACT) have attended AVP’s annual production. We are pleased to announce these reviews have been flattering.
Regarding AVP’s 2017 production of Singin’ In the Rain, special kudos were given to the technical aspects of the show, particularly the film within the play, which one reviewer described as “professional quality,” and the rain-making technique, which was “impressive” and “work[ed] beautifully.” The reviewers cited the costume design as “one of the best elements of the production.” They remarked that the “special umbrellas [featuring the show’s logo] in the closing number were very effective.”
Of AVP’s orchestra, a reviewer wrote, “The musicians were excellent. The music was powerful and . . . .The ensemble/choral sound was full and sounded beautiful.” The vocal coach and “Beautiful Girls” scenes were also acclaimed for both their singing and their movement. The choreographer (Deej Viau) received special recognition, with “the Grove girls number, the ‘Beautiful Girls’ sequence, the vocal coach scene and particularly ‘Make ‘Em Laugh’” being recognized as stand-outs. Cosmo (Andrew Murdoch) “had enormous energy and his moments on stage were noteworthy.” Special recognition was also given to child actors young Cosmo and young Don, and Lena (Victoria Fortune) was credited as “fabulous at creating a squeaky, grating voice and holding this character throughout the show.”
The EMACT reviewers returned for the 2018 production of The Little Mermaid. As they had noted the previous year, AVP made “good use of limited space.” They described the set as “beautifully rendered,” making particular note of the attention to detail on the ship and the grotto. They praised the “great variety in color and style of the costumes,” and described the lighting as “a key element in setting the mood.” The reviewers complimented Deej Viau’s choreography again, calling it “creative, innovative, and fun to watch, and “the silks provided a whole new level of artistry.” They also praised the leads’ “strong vocal performances” and observed the cast “seemed to be enjoying themselves.” The reviewers attested, “the ‘Under the Sea’ number was unbelievably charming,” and acclaimed the actors Sebastian, Flounder and Scuttle for their “great comedic timing,” noting that they “were truly engaging with each other and the audience.” Finally, “the large cast was filled with energy and joy.”
The experts agree: AVP continually produces excellent community theater!