Review: “Master Class” Leaves Audience Standing and Cheering at Bay Street

Vicki Lewis is a must-see as Maria Pallas in “Master Class,” a Terrence McNally play directed by Lisa Paterson that opened Saturday, July 29th at Bay Street Theater to a rousing standing ovation. The show will run until July 20th. Ms. Lewis took the show on a rollercoaster ride of laughter, delight, and thrills using her fantastic stage presence and star power. Her rapport with the opening night audience started with her applauded entrance and continued throughout the show because she was on stage for every second of both acts. Yet, she seemed to hold the audience in the palm of her hand, never not being in command of the production. Vicki Lewis as Maria Callas gave the audience a performance to be remembered forever. The audience was in awe of her every second.

It is always pleasant to sit in the audience when everyone is really enjoying the show. No one was dousing off, everyone was engaged, this production of “Master Class,” is that good. The laughter throughout the show insures a wonderful evening of live theater.

Director Lisa Patterson really put her signature on this production by creating a wonderful flow of energy, continuity of action, motion, and vibrancy. Her guidance made the cast create a cohesive show using the brilliant words of deceased Playwright Terrence McNally, who was truly a beloved friend of the Bay Street Theater. His spirit was felt in the theater. “Master Class.”

There are some other amazing performances in “Master Class,” starting with Olivia Hernandez as Sharon Graham. Her entrance wearing a stunning gown is a kudo to Costume Designer Laura Bauer. Ms. Hernandez’s facial expressions and comedic timing were truly commendable. Her singing voice is “most wonderful,” as was the singing voice of Rodney Ingram as Anthony Candolino. He brought out a huge roar of applause when he blew away the audience after singing in his scene. He is a pure Broadway star quality performer, as is Olivia Hernandez.

The silent yet ever-present Brett Ryback is fantastic, as is Manny Weinstock, Maria Callas’s piano-playing assistant. He, too, is on stage for almost the whole production. Besides playing beautiful piano sections, he provided some comedy and high-quality singing and was a crowd favorite.

Also, accolades to Stella Kim, who portrays Sophie De Palma. Her deadpan facial expressions and comedic skills propelled her talent to introduce herself to the audience while she was on stage. Ben Rauch had a few touching moments as the “Stagehand.”

It takes many talented behind-the-scenes folks to stage a great show such as “Master Class” is. It starts with  Bay Street Theater Executive Director Tracy Mitchell and Artistic Director Scott Schwartz. John Sullivan is the Associate Producer, and Chris Siefert is the Deputy Director. Once again, collectively, they have staged a winner. Also to be applauded are Rachel Hauk-Scenic Designer; Sun Hee Kil-Sound Designer and production stage Manager; Laura Bauer- Costume Designer; Yee Eun Nam-Projection Designer, Jenn Schriever-Lighting Design, Audrey McGuane-Props Designer; and Brett Ryback-Music Director.

The” Master Class,” staff consists of: Amelia McGinnis-Assistant Stage Manager, Peter Charney-Assistant Director, Anna Grigo-Assistant Set Designer and Mercy Bauer– Assistant Costume Designer.

For further information on show times and acquiring tickets, visit baystreet.org