Capital Dinner Theatre

Capital Dinner Theatre

by Brian Phillips

MiShar Productions is bringing dinner theatre to the Mid State. Headed by Michael and Sharon Hillegas, who have been producing both musical and comedic theatre nationally and on the local scene nearly 20 years. The Capital Dinner Theatre is a professional theatre group who, after producing the majority of their shows at

Wisehaven in York, now has a stage that is truly their own. Since opening the doors on November 14, the new building, located just off of Exit 24 of I-83, has hosted just two productions: “Sweeney Todd” and a holiday production called “Fruitcakes.” Those productions are just a taste of what promises to be an exciting 2001 season for the Dinner Theatre. The troupe prides itself in its diversity, offering a variety of shows from all periods of musical theatre — their line-up includes such classics as “South Pacific” and “Yankee Doodle Dandy” as well as some more recent shows like “Breaking the Habit” and “The Pajama Game.”

MiShar’s production of “Sweeney Todd” was not a part of the regular calendar season. It’s a part of The Encore Series. In the words of Sharon Hillegas, “don’t quite fit the dinner theatre bill.” And while dinner is not included with the price of admission for the show, the performance is worth it. Besides who could be interested in food when watching a musical about cannibalism?

This show, though modest in its level of production, was grand in its execution. The set was simple, the costumes had a home-made look, and, as far as the lighting and sound were concerned, the adage “less is more” would definitely fit. In fact, the lack of effects did one very important thing: it pointed the finger directly at the elements of a production that are the most important: the acting and the music. In this show, that was a very, very good thing.

The two cornerstone of this musical, Sweeney Todd, played by Dominick Cicco, and Mrs Lovett, played by Ruth Snyder, were exciting to watch. Both seemed extremely comfortable with each other.

Cicco’s operatic voice was well suited for the lead. His voice rang clearly, and from his first entrance to the last swipe of his razor, he was a presence that loomed large.

But the real jewel of this production was Ruth Snyder. Her portrayal of the off-kilter, somewhat loony Mrs. Lovett was as close to perfect as any performance I have seen. Her comic timing, her accent, her emotional range, and most of all her willingness to experiment and be playful with her role all worked together to create a character that made you believe.

Ryan Boyles and Tressa McAllister, the young Anthony and Johanna, respectively, gave incredible and energetic supporting performances. With the exception of a few chorus members who appeared to be more concerned with the freezing rain outside than their parts, the show was well done. And the orchestra, consisting of three musicians, played Sondheim without missing a beat. They blended together like a true ensemble, never overshadowing each other or the performers.

This was great theatre, no doubt about it. And I left thinking that if this is what MiShar is bringing to Harrisburg, bring it on.

The second production of the Encore Series, “Desire,” opens February 9. For more information about the show, including show times and dates call the box office at 233-5400 or 877-421-0000.