Catawba College Theatre’s current production of Working is excellent.
I’ve been too busy the past couple of years to go to all the shows, like I used to — but I did see The Boy Friend, earlier this year, and tonight I saw Working.
Perhaps I think it’s awesome because I haven’t had much time for theatre lately, such that anything seems awesome to me. Or, perhaps I think it’s awesome because it’s awesome. I’m pretty sure it is.
Ironically, I had reservations about going to this show about working because I’ve gotten behind on my work this week and had to leave a good bit of work undone in order to go. I’m glad I did.
These kids are putting up some sweet, delightful musicals. They have a ton of talent. Strong voices. The acting is nearly perfect; they’re incredibly well prepared. They understand the story they’re telling and never do anything to get in its way.
The four piece orchestra on stage isn’t bad entertainment, either.
I’ve got Studs Terkel‘s book, Working, here in my office, right here beside me. It’s been here on my shelf, beside me, for over 20 years. I’ve never read the whole book. But occasionally I open it and start reading — and no matter which page I turn to, I become mesmerized for some time. It’s a masterpiece.
The show captures the poignancy of working Americans also.
The Catawba Theatre faculty — the brains behind this production — does a wonderful job with multimedia. Moving characters in silhouette, behind changing photos projected on screens, make the background as fluid as the performance on stage.
There’s a lot to watch, and a lot to hear. The songs tell simple, clear stories. The photos provide a powerful montage. But it’s all organic.
There’s one more night, tomorrow (Saturday, April 17). There were a few empty seats tonight. Not many. If it’s possible to get a seat tomorrow, it’s worth it.