With Stephen Sondheim’s passing in 2021, it is not surprising that a musical homage, ok it’s a jukebox musical, of his works appeared. “Old Friends” started in London and is now at the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles prior to its Broadway premiere. But unlike so many composer-based juke-box musicals, “Old Friends,” is a treasure trove of incredible music from which to choose, and, for the most part, that treasure shines with diamond brilliance.
Some of the songs are done as written, while others are made into duets, trios or even full ensemble pieces and all to great effect. For some songs, scenery and costume changes allow the entire number to be fully staged, as in “The Worst Pies in London” and “You Gotta Get A Gimmick.” Contrastingly, there are those numbers, like “Loving You,” which are stripped of stage business and choreography, allowing the beauty of the music and the brilliant lyrical wordplay to shine brightly.
This is one of those unforgettable evenings in the theatre where it really feels like lightning has truly been captured in a bottle. The entire cast clearly loves the chosen material and it shows in every performance of every song! This amazing cast is headed by Bernadette Peters and Lea Salonga. The night I saw the show, Peters seemed to be having some vocal issues due to what appeared to be a cold or allergies. But pro that she is, her energy onstage never sagged and landed some really big laughs along with some very touching moments. But with more solos, Lea Salonga really got to show off her versatility, making me believe she can play almost any role she wants to do! From “Sweeny Todd,” her renditions of the aforementioned “The Worst Pies in London” and “A Little Priest,” made me hope she gets to play Mrs. Lovett soon and somewhere close by!
Another of the gems in this cast is Beth Leavel who, among other wonderful moments, tackles “Ladies Who Lunch” and knocks it clear out of the ballpark. Bonnie Langford, who was so terrific in the filmed London production of “42nd Street,” is clearly having a blast in this show and does an amazing job with “I’m Still Here.” I could run down the entire playlist here as there is not a bad moment in the show with most cast members getting their own moment to shine. The incredibly creative Matthew Bourne (all-male “Swan Lake”) supplied the direction and the musical staging with sharply choreographed numbers by Stephen Mear. Rather than spoil the entire show’s surprises let me just say that if you are a Sondheim fan, this show is a must-see. If you’ve convinced yourself that Sondheim couldn’t write a pretty song, then give this show a try as it just might change your mind.
“OLD FRIENDS” is playing at the Ahmanson theatre now through March 9, 2025. For tickets or more information, visit their website at https://www.centertheatregroup.org/