Human Race Theatre delights audiences with 'Man of La Mancha'

November 1, 3:56 PMCincinnati Theater ExaminerElizabeth Crowe

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Kevin Moore (Cervantes/Quixote) and David C. Maxwell (Sancho Panza) star in 'Man of La Mancha'

Photo provided courtesy of Human Race Theatre

Human Race Theatre delights theater audiences with 'Man of La Mancha' (book by Dale Wasserman, music by Mitch Leigh, and lyrics by Joe Darion). 

One thing can be expected when visiting the Human Race Theatre and that is that you will fall in love with the performance.  Standing ovations are the norm.

Director and choreographer Scott Stoney along with Scenic Designer David A. Centers and Technical Director Scott J. Kimmins sent one thought racing through my mind as the show came to a close.  'Bravo!'

The moment the guards entered near the beginning of the show, I was blown away.  I stared agape at the set as it ... alas, I cannot give it away ... but I could not take my eyes off it and knew that I was in the presence of greatness.  Mr. Stoney, Mr. Centers, and Mr. Kimmins clearly dreamed the impossible dream with this set and succeeded.

Not to be outdone was Cathleen Edwards, Costume Designer.  From the frightening Spanish Inquisition judge at the top of the steps; to Aaron Vega's and J.J. Tiemeyer's mule and horse costumes, which were simultaneously farcical yet genuine in a world ripe on madness; Kristoffer Lowe's (the Padre) simple yet versatile robes; the colorful clothing of the Moors (played by Jerome Doerger and Matthew Natale Rush); and so much more.  The costumes were superb.

One of my favorite touches of the whole show was the light shining on Mr. Lowe as he sung, "I Really Like Him."  As he knelt under a simple light, God entered the room.  The effect was divine.

Nathan D. Dean, Sound Designer, used the sounds of simple drops of water to bring the dungeon to life even before the show began.

A special thank you to D. Tristan Cupp (Head Carpenter/Puppet Artisan) for his work with the puppets.  It would have been so easy just to make do with something simple.  But it would have been impossible to create anything more delightful.

Mr. Moore (Cervantes/Don Quixote) outdid himself.  It says in the program that this was his "dream role."  And he brought it to life in a way that is timeless and memorable.  In a role that requires one to reel the audience into a make-believe world to the point that one loses the line between what is real and what is not and to such extent that it is more desirable to stay in the illusion, Mr. Moore was born to play this role.

Kristoffer Lowe has an exquisite singing voice.  I would have been content to sit in the theater all night just listening to him sing.  It's as though angels descend from heaven to hear it.

Melissa D'Amico (Aldonza) was splendid.  With every note, every gesture, the show increased in depth.  Especially when she sang with Joseph Spieldenner (Anselmo/Muleteer), the songs were breathtakingly beautiful.

David C. Maxwell (Sancho Panza) brought love to the show.  With his endearing humility, compassion, and joyfulness, his portrayal added depth and warmth. 

One word sums this show up perfectly.  From beginning to end and everywhere in between, bravo!

Show tickets:
The Human Race Theatre Company at The Loft is located at 126 N. Main Street in Dayton, third floor.  You can take the elevator or stairs to get into the theater.  Also, Uno's Pizza is just downstairs if you feel like having dinner before the show; or visit El Meson for their special 'Man of La Mancha' Spanish meal.  The show runs now through November 15.  Tickets range from $15.50 to $36 and can be purchased online or by calling (937) 228-3630 or (888) 228-3630.

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