By Belen Quellet

If you’re expecting just another musical, think again. You’ll leave Creative Cauldron’s latest production not only reflecting on the genius of Stephen Sondheim but also on the legacy we all leave behind. This is not just a tribute; it’s a deep dive into Sondheim’s world, filled with themes that connect us all—love, loss, desire, and ambition.

Directed by Matt Conner, this two-act Sondheim Tribute Revue is an immersive evening exploring the human experience through nature, much like Sondheim’s famous works “Into the Woods,” “So Many People” and “Sunday in the Park with George.” The intimate setting of Creative Cauldron made the 85-member audience feel as though we were part of the action, experiencing every high and low alongside the characters. By the end, we were all on our feet, saluting the performers for an evening that was as introspective as it was entertaining.

The show revolves around eight actors, each embodying a different character from the vast Sondheim canon. These characters journey through a shared world, bringing the audience along to examine the universal conditions of love, hate, success, and failure. As they explore the consequences of life’s choices, quests, and wishes, the production becomes a mirror for the audience to reflect on their own experiences.

In true Creative Cauldron fashion, the production aligns with the organization’s mission of showcasing the power of creativity as a fundamental human need. The cast, all local talent, performed together for the first time, yet they delivered an incredibly cohesive and heartfelt performance. It’s impossible not to be swept up in the joy and passion they bring to their roles, even while tackling Sondheim’s notoriously complex musical scores.

Sondheim’s music, known for its intricate rhythms and challenging vocal leaps, is no easy feat for any performer. But this cast—Erin Granfield, Molly Rumberger, Katie McManus, Sumié Yotsukura, Kiana King, Ben Ribler, Ricky Drummond, and Trenton McKenzie Beavers—handled it masterfully. Every note, and every word resonated deeply, making the emotional impact of each song all the more powerful.

One standout element of the evening was the live music, led by Music Director Elisa Rosman. As she accompanied the cast on the piano, her joy was palpable. Playing 25 songs throughout the show, Rosman’s fingers seemed to float effortlessly over the keys, breathing life into Sondheim’s music. It was clear that every note came from a place of deep love and respect for the composer’s work.

This opening production of the 2024-25 season was generously sponsored by The Savada-Stevenson Family and Frosch Travel, long-time supporters of Creative Cauldron. Their contributions have been instrumental in ensuring that Creative Cauldron continues to bring the finest musical theatre artists to the local stage. This production marks what is likely the final set of performances in the current venue, as Creative Cauldron prepares to transition to its new home.

Matt Conner’s directorial vision shines through in this production. Rather than simply presenting a static performance of Sondheim’s music, Conner has crafted a journey—a journey that speaks to us all. His interpretation of these eight characters and their intertwining stories allows the audience to experience the full range of emotions present in Sondheim’s work, skillfully blended into a seamless narrative.

Laura Connors Hull, Founding Artistic Director, emphasized the importance of this production, noting that the strict guidelines—no book, no orchestration—meant the songs couldn’t just be sung in a “park and bark” style. Instead, Conner’s storytelling drew out the complex emotions in Sondheim’s music, allowing the audience to fully experience the genius of one of theatre’s greatest writers. “This is a moment we will never have again,” Hull reflected, underscoring the connection between the audience, the artists, and the music that made the evening so transformative.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Sondheim or experiencing his work for the first time, this is a show you simply cannot miss. The production runs through October 27, and you’ll leave feeling inspired, your spirit lifted by the brilliance of Sondheim’s legacy.

The creative team includes Matt Conner (Director), Elisa Rosman (Music Director), Margie Jervis (Scenic and Costume Designer), Lynn Joslin (Lighting Designer), Nicholas J. Goodman (Stage Manager), and Dakota Kaylor (Drums).