If you’ve followed my theatre content for any amount of time you know how much I love Bright Star. It’s knocking on Les Miserables’ door as my favorite musical and certainly is my favorite musical of the last decade. I love it for many reasons but it has it all as far as emotions. It’s tragic, romantic and has some laughs. It’s the perfect balance. I also love the songs (music and lyrics by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, book by Martin.)

I’ve seen Bright Star at least 9 times and have given productions of it my best musical award twice (I’m thinking I need to exempt it this year because I just love the show so much I’m biased for it.) The latest production comes from Lehi Arts Council and I was prepared to give it a pass because it’s a small venue and arts council but I didn’t need to. It is an outstanding production across the board and I’m not surprised to hear it is selling out so get your tickets quick!

The biggest standout of Bright Star at Lehi Arts Council is the very talented cast. Again, nobody would ever expect the quality of the singing and acting we are treated to here in such a small intimate venue in Lehi. Shannon Ricks has a beautiful alto sound as Allice Murphy and she’s up for the intense scenes the role calls for. She also has wonderful chemistry with the very handsome and talented Ethan Kelso as Jimmy Ray. I also really enjoyed Dylan Manzahares as Billy Cane, Brooklyn Ashby as Margo, and Felicia Sandor as Lucy. Everyone is wonderful.

The costumes by Denise Gull add the right touch (includes some pretty fast dress changes as Alice goes from old to young.) They go a little crazy with the fog machine but other than that the production (Garrett Roblyer) is just right for the black box style theatre.

Tickets for Bright Star are selling fast so get yours while you have the chance. It’s a beautiful story with terrific performances in an intimate and thoughtfully prepared space. You won’t regret it! Can purchase tickets here.

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