Judging by the opening night’s thunderous applause, the Hampton Theatre Company’s production of “I Do! I Do!” is a smashing and dazzling success. Kudos to HTC President and Director Rosemary Cline, who, besides doing an outstanding job as Director, is also a Producer, as is Andrew Botsford. “I Do! I Do! is a musical by Harvey Schmidt and Tom Jones that follows a couple through fifty years of marriage. This hit musical will be presented at Quogue Community Hall, running through March 29.
The small cast of “I Do! I Do!” consists of Nicholas Auletti as “Michael,” and HTC newcomer Savannah Jean Moore as “Agnes.” One cannot offer enough praise for Savannah Jean Moore’s performance as “Agnes.” Her sweet singing voice and graceful movements, gestures, pivots, and overall energy blended so well with her co-star. Pay attention to Ms. Moore because she is a star either in the making or in the process of being discovered. Her powerful solos on the songs “Something Has Happened” and “What Is A Woman” are most memorable. Watching her on stage is worth the price of two tickets.
The development and ever-growing talent of Nicholas Auletti is on full display in “I Do I Do.” He sings, he dances, romances, and is funny, as well as serious. Mr. Auletti is an all “up-front and center actor” who uses his abilities to project and to propel this show right into the hearts and souls of the audience. This reviewer personally enjoyed his rendition of the song, “I Love My Wife!”
Ms. Moore and Mr. Auletti’s final duet, “This House,” brought most of the audience to tears, leading to an emotional standing ovation.
Good job to Dressers Esmeralda Cabrera and Jocelyn Paige Podlas, who appear on stage, moving things and setting things up discreetly.
A delightful added feature of this production was that, after the curtain call applause, General Manager Terry Brennan of the Hampton Theatre Company extended the celebration of marriage by inviting three couples onto the stage for a complimentary vow renewal ceremony presided over by Quogue Mayor Robert Treuhold.
The plan moving forward is that, following most performances, couples in the audience can reaffirm their marriage vows on stage right after the show, but reservations are required.
A big-time salute to the HTC’s behind-the-scenes team. A shout-out to Musical Director Dee Laveglia and to the marvelous Set Design of Steve Rodgers, along with the efforts of Choreographer Emily Derrick. The flawless Lighting Design is by Sebastian Paczynski. The Technical Director is Meg Sexton, and the Costume Designer is Teresa LeBrun. Then there are the efforts of Lead Carpenters Steve Rogers and Kieran Quinn. Sound Engineers- Rob Reeve and Alex J. White. The Rehearsal Stage Manager, Melissa Didio, and The Production Stage Manager, Stephanie McGrath.
Performances of “I Do! I Do!” at the Quogue Community Hall will run until March 29 on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7, and on Sundays at 2:30. An additional matinee performance will be offered on Saturday, March 28, at 2:30, before the regular 7 p.m. performance that evening.
Two post-show talkbacks featuring the Director and cast will be offered following the March 20 and March 27 evening performances.
For more info, visit Hamptontheatre.org.
