As a critic I don’t often get involved in the behind the scenes of production but occasionally I will be asked for advice from companies particularly on what shows I recommend they put on over others. One such example is when I suggested to the good folks at Ideal Playhouse they put on The Spitfire Grill. This is a show that I saw way back in 2006 at Hale Center Theatre Orem and it always stayed with me and yet I’ve never been able to see it again since. It’s such an endearing story with beautiful songs that I was thrilled when Ideal announced they had taken my suggestion and were putting it on this Spring. Now I have seen it and they’ve done this wonderful show justice. I highly recommend supporting this touching and well performed little production of a highly underrated musical.

If you are unfamiliar with the story (or the 1996 film that it is based on) The Spitfire Grill is a simple story about an ex-con named Percy who is trying to start a new life for herself in picturesque Gilead Wisconsin. Upon arrival she gets a job at the town diner and hub owned by salt-of-the-earth type Hannah. She also gets to know the local sheriff Joe and fellow waitress Shelby. The interesting thing about a show like The Spitfire Grill is not that much plot-wise actually happens but some musicals we just enjoy being with the people and going on a simple journey with them.

The production at Ideal is directed by Steve Anderson with music direction by Karyn Anderson. They find a way to make Gilead and the grill come alive on their small stage with projections of trees that come out onto the outer walls and I liked that there are layers to the set with the grill, trees and then a projection in the background. It’s as immersive as one could get for the small space. The only critique I might have changed is making Effy more of an obvious postal employee with a uniform or hat or something.

I was also impressed with the cast especially Ashley Bates as Percy. She has a pluck to her performance you don’t always see in these kind of roles (easy to make a role like Percy all brooding and no lightness but she avoids this trap beautifully.) She also has a very strong singing voice beautifully executing songs like “Colors of Paradise” and “Wild Bird.” I also loved Jessica Theriault as Shelby and her rendition of the super underrated song “When Hope Goes.” What an absolutely beautiful song.

Anyone who has read my reviews knows how much I love the musical Bright Star. It is a stunning work of musical theatre and one that has become quite popular in Utah. I honestly think anyone who loves Bright Star would also love The Spitfire Grill. Yes both are about small towns but it’s more than that. They both have a humanity to them with characters that undergo simple but moving journeys. Plus they both have beautiful folk music you’ll be downloading as soon as you leave the theatre. Please don’t let this gem of musical theatre pass you by. After all it could be another 20 years before you get the chance to see it again! I know it’s a drive for many to get out to Heber but I know you will find it worth the effort. It is playing through May 9th at Ideal Playhouse and tickets can be purchased here.

The Spitfire Grill has music by James Valcq and lyrics by Fred Alley who also both wrote the book. It is based on the 1996 film of the same name. It had an Off-Broadway run in 2001.

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