The Drowsy Chaperone : this cleverly contrived Canadian musical is a two-headed beast.

Photo:  Alan Dean

The Drowsy Chaperone, with its story about the trials, tribulations and ultimate triumph of young love, its song lyrics that are at times ridiculous but acutely aware of their own silliness, and its big, bright dance numbers, the show is at once a smart example of musical theatre and a good-natured jab at the genre.
That can be a tricky balance for a production to maintain, but Orpheus does it with panache and good humour.
Andrea Black, a strong singer and frisky performer, plays Janet Van De Graaff, an applause-loving actor and one-half of the show’s main love story.

The other half of that story is her fiancé Robert Martin, played by Kodi Cannon. Cannon has a fine voice but often moves awkwardly on stage especially when tap dancing. If he just loosens up and adds some snap, he’ll boost his on-stage presence to the next level.

Lesley Osborn as Janet’s alcoholic chaperone needs more spring in her step. Her drinking may make her drowsy, but Osborn’s delivery when speaking is just plain dull.
Wayne Nolan plays Man in Chair, a musical theatre buff who is also the show’s narrator, occasionally stopping the show mid-song to comment on what we’re watching. Nolan is terrific in the part, giving us a guy who’s a clear enthusiast but with a wry sense of humour about his beloved art form.
The lively-voiced Mary Armstrong is under-utilized in the minor role of Trix the Aviatrix.
Artistic director Michael Gareau allows the pace to droop in Act One, and John McGovern, musical director, falls into the same trap a couple of times. Debbie Millett’s choreography is sharp and often funny
Bottom line: a show that, despite some glitches, reminds musical theatre fans why they’re fans.

 

The Drowsy Chaperone

A Production by Orpheus Musical Theatre

Music & Lyrics: Lisa Lambert and Greg Morrison
Book: Bob Martin and Don McKellar

CAST

Man In Chair, The Narrator
Wayne Nolan

Mrs. Tottendale, The Hostess
Christine Drew

Underling, The Butler
Jim Robertson

Robert Martin, The Bridegroom
Kodi Cannon

George, The Best Man
Darren Bird

Feldzieg, The Producer
Sam Smith

Kitty, The Chorine
Christine Moran

Gangster # 1
Andrew Galligan

Gangster # 2
Bryan Jesmer

Aldolpho, The Lothario
Dennis Van Staalduinen

Janet Van De Graaff, The Bride
Andréa Black

The Drowsy Chaperone
Lesley Osborn

Trix, The Aviatrix
Mary Armstrong

The Superintendant
Alex Brunjes

Ensemble, Estate Staff, Reporters, Etc.
Mary Armstrong, France Bastien, Alex Brunjes, Samantha De Benedet, Danielle Denisko, Peter Doherty, Isabella Kondrat, Jacob Roberts, Dave Rowan, Jeremy Sanders, Lisa Wagner