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They're Playing Our Song

Sonia and Vernon are a classic case of opposites attract in Beef & Boards' season opener They're Playing Our Song. The romantic comedy is great for anyone feeling nostalgic for the late 1970s. The decade specific choreography and costumes play such a prominent role, it's hard to imagine the story at any other time.

The show is the first of eight musicals in the 2019 lineup at the dinner theatre. Though this musical isn't as well-known as others, it features the work of playwright Neil Simon. His quick-witted banter is delightful and with only nine songs, this musical depends more heavily of dialogue than others. 
Though they are assisted by a few supporting cast members who reflect their inner struggles, the show mainly rests on the shoulders of the two leads. Sarah Hund  has become a favorite at Beef & Boards for her playful sense of humor and vocal skills. Both serve her well in the role of the flaky, eccentric Sonia. She’s all heart and little head as the novice lyricist.  

The yin to her yang is David Schmitou in the role of Vernon. He’s a composer who appreciates order and following rules. In this role, his physical comedy and mannerisms remind me of Bryan Cranston in Malcolm in the Middle. Sonia’s enthusiasm for life attracts him against his better judgement, but it's not an easy coupling. The actors work well together and their conversations are often stronger than the songs themselves, pulling the audience in with their chemistry. 


Though elements may feel dates, especially for those who are new to the show, the love story remains timeless. We watch Sonia and Vernon meet, fall in love, and hit hurdles like any other couple. We travel through the course of their relationship alongside them and cross our fingers for a happy ending.
 

Don't Miss the Show
The show's content is rated PG-13. Up next at Beef & Boards is Grease, opening Feb. 7.  

Performances
: The show runs until Feb. 3. Doors open for evening performances at 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. The buffet is served from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. For Wednesday matinees doors open at 11:30 a.m. and the buffet is served from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The show begins at 1 p.m. For Sunday matinees doors open at 12 p.m. and the buffet is served from 12:15 to 1 p.m. The show begins at 1:30 p.m.

Tickets: To purchase tickets call (317) 872-9664 between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Prices range from $45 to $70 and include the show, tax, coffee, tea and the buffet.

Photos courtesy of Beef & Boards

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