A LUSH, ROMANTIC JOURNEY
THROUGH LOVE AND TRANSFORMATION
Since Adam Karsten‘s arrival as Artistic Director at CV Rep, the quality and consistency of the theater’s productions have improved exponentially. The current production of The Light in the Piazza, directed by Karsten, takes this progress to the stratosphere.
Mollie Vogt-Welch, Daniel Lopez, Logan Graye
This 2005 Broadway musical beautifully captures the enchantment of unexpected love and the complexities of familial bonds. With music and lyrics by Adam Guettel and a book by Craig Lucas, adapting Elizabeth Spencer’s 1960 novella, the show is an immersive blend of sweeping melodies and deeply emotional storytelling. Guettel’s lush, sophisticated score is the heart of the production, seamlessly blending classical, operatic, and Broadway styles. Music Director Stephen Hulsey leads a 7-piece chamber orchestra upstage with Laura Casey stunning on the harp, ensuring that the score becomes a character in its own right.
Alison English, Daniel Lopez, Charles Herrera, Morgan Gray, Mollie Vogt-Welch
Set in 1950s Florence, Italy, The Light in the Piazza follows Margaret Johnson, a Southern woman on holiday with her daughter, Clara. What begins as an idyllic getaway takes an unexpected turn when Clara falls for the charming Fabrizio Naccarelli. Beneath its romantic façade, the musical delves into themes of personal growth, bravery, and the sacrifices that love often requires.
Mollie Vogt-Welch, Charles Herrera, Daniel Lopez, Logan Graye
Karsten has assembled a glorious cast that brings to life this heartwarming and intimate story of love, family, and self-discovery. He skillfully balances the lush, soaring romance with the deeply personal and sometimes fragile human connections that make the story so poignant. He also incorporated dance into this production through Karen Sieber’s stunning choreography.
Mollie Vogt-Welch
As Margaret, Mollie Vogt-Welch carries the emotional weight of the show with grace, nuance and astounding vocals. Her portrayal of a mother torn between protecting her daughter and allowing her to pursue happiness is deeply moving. Her rendition of “Dividing Day” is a standout moment, delivering heart-wrenching vulnerability. Margaret’s eleven o’clock number, “Fable” has become an iconic piece for women in musical theater. With heart-wrenching lyrics, “If you find in the world, in the wide, wide world that someone sees that someone knows you – Love,” Vogt-Welch’s delivery is devastating in the best way.
Logan Graye
Logan Graye brings youthful exuberance and tenderness to Clara, capturing her innocence and determination. Her performance of “The Light in the Piazza” radiates pure joy, making Clara’s love for Fabrizio feel deeply authentic. Daniel Lopez embodies Fabrizio’s passionate and earnest nature with charm and sincerity. His chemistry with Clara feels genuine, and his vocal performance in “Il Mondo Era Vuoto” is nothing short of mesmerizing. My heart gushed and my tears flowed during his stellar performance of “Love to Me.”
Alison English, Daniel Lopez, Mollie Vogt-Welch, Morgan Graye, Patrick Wallace
Charles Herrera and Allison England as Fabrizio’s parents, Signor and Signora Naccarelli, provide a compelling balance of humor and depth. Herrera’s understated performance as the protective patriarch contrasts beautifully with England’s warmth and wisdom. Michael De Souza is Giuseppe, Fabrizio’s brother, whose youthful charm, playful energy and flirtatious nature contrast with the story’s more serious elements, providing moments of levity. His chemistry with the other characters, particularly Clara and his wife Franca, is engaging and dynamic. Stephanie Lynn Mason plays Fabrizio’s sister-in-law Franca Nacarelli, captivating us with her sophistication and depth, embodying a woman grappling with love and betrayal. Her vocal performance is passionate and nuanced, particularly in her poignant solos.
Tim Ewing
Back in the States, Margaret’s husband Roy, played with gravitas by Tim Ewing, is a foil for Margaret. While she loves him, he provides the evidence she needs to be bold and courageous in the face of his contrasting wishes. The ensemble, including Emily Unnasch, Patrick Wallace, Lisette Garrido, Anton Lamon, and Sareen Tchekmedyian take on a myriad of characters including museum docents, priests, and various Florentines. Through choreography, voice, drama and humor they serve to bring Florence to life beautifully.
Logan Graye, Mollie Vogt-Welch
Jimmy Cuomo’s set design is dynamic and minimal. It uses movable pieces and subtle architectural elements to evoke the city of Florence without overwhelming the story. Moira Wilkie’s lighting design evokes the warmth and beauty of Italy, creating an intimate atmosphere, enhancing the romantic and emotional tone of the story. Hannah Chalman’s gorgeous costumes effectively reflect the 1950s Italian setting.
Daniel Lopez and Logan Graye
At its core, The Light in the Piazza is about the bravery it takes to embrace vulnerability, whether in love or family. Margaret’s journey of letting go and Clara’s defiance of societal expectations resonate on a deeply personal level. The show’s exploration of disability through Clara’s character adds an extra layer of complexity, handled with sensitivity and grace.
Sareen Tchekmedyian & Anton LaMon
CV Rep’s The Light in the Piazza is a masterful production that weaves romance, humor, and emotional depth into a compelling narrative. Anchored by stunning performances and an unforgettable score, it’s a must-see which will have you appreciating the transformative power of theater. With breathtaking music and poignant storytelling, this luminous gem will linger in your heart long after the final note.
photos by David A. Lee
The Light in the Piazza
Coachella Valley Repertory
68510 East Palm Canyon Dr in Cathedral City
Wed & Sat at 2 & 7; Thurs & Fri at 7; Sun at 2
ends on to February 9, 2025
for tickets ($90), call 760.296.2966 x115 or visit CV Rep
