"There were times in the Sunday matinee performance that I would realize a scene had left the audience so breathless that they were forgetting to clap. That is high praise indeed."
"As the show continues, Cometa fully commits to each and every part of her character’s personal journey. Her powerful, clear voice is impressive in every song she sings, but she matches it with an emotional intensity that is even more stellar."
"Gleason is an outstanding vocal talent, and while he says that he is a singer first, his acting is commendable as well. He gives much of the credit to the director for encouraging him."
Something's Cooking!
Living in a small town is something that cannot be fully explained unless you have had the experience for yourself. When landmarks like traffic lights and gas stations are remarkable because they are the only one in town, you also end up knowing everyone else's business as well or better than you know your own. This type of town is the setting for The Spitfire Grill by James Valcq and Fred Alley, directed by Warren Weinstein, which opened at Cyrano's Theatre Company this past weekend.
This musical is based on the 1996 film Spitfire Grill, about a feisty parolee who follows her dreams to a small Wisconsin town. After finding employment and lodging from the owner of the only restaurant in town, she becomes part of the colorful characters that fill the diner each day for coffee and gossip. As she learns more about her new neighbors, she tries to keep her own past hidden. When she comes up with the idea for someone to win the unwanted grill in a contest, the town comes alive. With poignant, timely subject matter, and moments that range from hilarious to heartbreaking, this musical is different in all the best ways.