1950s Flashback in Nostalgic ’Forever Plaid’
Matunuck’s Theatre By The Sea recently began its 79th Season on May 30 with the nostalgia-filled musical comedy "Forever Plaid." The show runs through June 17.
Since it premiered off-Broadway in 1990, "Forever Plaid" has become one of the most beloved musicals in recent memory. It focuses on a quartet of young male singers who recall such pop groups of the 1950s as The Four Lads and The Four Freshman. Their dreams are cut short just as they’re about to get to perform; but, miraculously, they are given the chance to fulfill their dreams and perform the show that never was.
The "Plaids" sing classic pop hits of the ’50s in the closest of harmony, squabble boyishly over the smallest intonations, and execute outlandish choreography with over-zealous precision. Songs include "Heart and Soul," "Three Coins in a Fountain," "16 Tons," "Rags to Riches" and many others.
A labor of love
Scott Guthrie, who portrayed the lead role of Jerry Lukowski in the company’s critically acclaimed production of "The Full Monty," is making his directorial debut with "Forever Plaid." URI graduate, Mike Backes, who appeared on the Theatre By The Sea stage in "Jekyll & Hyde," will portray the role of Frankie. He will be joined by Adolpho Blaire as Sparky, Max Pallman as Smudge and Jeffrey Scott Stevens as Jinx, all of whom are making their Theatre By The Sea debuts.
For Guthrie, directing "Forever Plaid" was a real labor of love. He has performed in the show multiple times, playing different roles. Guthrie also served as a dance captain and associate director on the production.
"This show has a lot of fond memories for me," Guthrie told EDGE. "I know it inside and out. I performed it enough. I still love the piece."
Guthrie is enjoying being in charge of the production: "It’s nice to watch and get a new perspective on it."
Guthrie also appreciates the talents of the cast, many who he has worked with before.
"They’re great," Guthrie said. "I think the audience are going to love them."
"Forever Plaid" will be presented through June 17, 2012 at Theatre By The Sea, 364 Cards Pond Road, Matunuck, RI. For more information, visit the Theatre By The Sea website.
