Romance is clearly in the air in Branford, thanks to a world premiere at the Legacy Theatre, when two strangers meet on a cruise ship and, although they are both engaged to marry someone else, fall in love. For over eight decades in film, in black and white and in Technicolor, in film and in plays, we are now ready to welcome them in a new musical as “Love Affair” heats up the stage until Sunday, August 25. What could be more wonderful than the promise of love and a long future together, even if obstacles challenge that union?
Credits for book, music and lyrics to Joseph J. Simeone, who also co-directed, choreographed and did the production design with Matthew Couvillon, with additional lyrics by Ethan Kanfer and additional book by Annaliese Jakimides, “Love Affair” is definitely a Valentine to the emotion that rules our hearts, one we all strive to capture and embrace.
When Michelle Aravena’s Terry McKay meets the notorious playboy Michael Starr’s Michel Marnet, we already have witnessed her kindness. Terry graciously rescued a fellow cruise passenger, Emily Steinhardt’s Phyllis Knoeflier from an embarrassing situation and a new and special friendship has developed. Both admire the world of music and dance and entertaining, and even though Terry is a secretary she has aspirations to be on the stage. Terry’s recent engagement to her boss Mr. Crowley is one of convenience and her desire for stability in her life while the suave Michel sees his bride-to-be Lois Clark as a ticket to wealth and luxury.
Can these two overcome the challenges of romance and succeed in life? How will the influences of Phyllis and of Michel’s favorite aunt Madeleine, a concerned and helpful Janet Dickinson help the pair resolve their differences? Can Terry and Michel trust they can build a future on their own merits? Will fate throw an unforeseen obstacle in their plans for happiness? Tunes like “Could You Wait for Love” and “How to Make a Dream Come True” swirl through the ocean air. Additional cast members include Amber Emerson, Dominic Pagliaro and Steve Taylor. Bill Speed on piano keeps the music rolling merrily along.
For tickets ($26.50-51.50), call the Legacy Theatre, 128 Thimble Island Road, Stony Creek, Branford at 203- 315-1901 or online at legacytheatrect.org/love-affair. Performances are Thursday at 7 p.m. (8/15 at 2 p.m.), Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. (8/24 at 8 p.m.) and Sunday at 2 p.m.
On opening night, the audience was treated to a wonderful example of love when the play’s creator Joseph J. Simeone at curtain call asked Matthew Couvillon, his partner for a decade, to marry him. What better symbol of devotion could there be. Toast them with a glass of bubbly pink champagne.
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