The Drowsy Chaperone begins its run at AMP on May 16

Submitted by Karen Harper
Amelia Musical Playhouse
May 14, 2019

To chase his blues away, a modern-day musical theatre addict known simply as “the man in the chair” drops the needle on his favourite record—the 1928 Broadway musical The Drowsy Chaperone. From the crackle of his hi-fi, the uproariously funny romantic comedy magically bursts to life on stage, telling the tale of Janet, a pampered Broadway starlet who plans to give up her career to marry Robert, the fabulously wealthy and debonair heir to an oil fortune. Presenting obstacles are Janet’s drowsy (tipsy) chaperone, a broadway producer, his ditzy girlfriend, a Latin Lothario, and a pair of gangsters masquerading as pastry chefs. Champagne flows, caviar chills, and all of life is a party—at least for the wealthy, that is. Will threats from the gangsters, cases of mistaken identity, physical mishap or mayhem prevent the wedding from taking place at the fabulous mansion of the chronically confused Mrs. Tottendale?

Directed by Geoffrey King and choreographed by  Susie Dodge, the creative force behind the recent Amelia Island Dance Festival, this play is what theatre should be: FUN—accompanied by catchy tunes, lively dancing, and much humor. You will leave the theatre with a smile on your face, a song in your heart, and a Charleston in your feet. Musical direction is provided by Jill Dillingham, conducted by Solomon Johnson, costumes designed by Karen Harper King.

The Drowsy Chaperone will be on stage at Amelia Musical Playhouse, 1955 Island Walkway, May 16-18 and 23-25 at 7:30 pm, May 19 at 5:00 pm with a possible additional matinee May 26. Call 904-277-3455, visit the box office, or go to [email protected] to buy tickets.