Stellar cast brings new life to old love in Blank Theatre Company’s 'She Loves Me'

Long months after a busy holiday season give much anticipation as theatre’s spring thaw-out, so, far from the detached chill of winter, Blank Theatre Company’s production of She Loves Me is a nice little jaunt into spring. A venerable musical comedy of errors (book by Joe Masteroff, music by Jerry Bock, and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick), Blank takes a new look at this old material to make for a refreshing evening of laughter and love. 

Director Danny Kapinos faces challenges aplenty in adapting Broadway’s Golden Age into the intimacy of a Chicago storefront theatre. Kapinos finds success in championing the power of ensemble; from beginning to end, cast members not present in a scene may be found observing events as a silent Greek chorus, and they seamlessly weave through each transition with willing support of the story. Play thrives in such a space, as the ensemble’s connectivity to each other ignites spontaneity and verisimilitude.

However, in light of a more contemporary approach to this production’s presentation, there is still some dust hanging from the rafters of the dated material. The sexism inherent to phrases like “he’ll read to me while I cook” and “No More Candy” are just the tip of the iceberg of uncomfortable brushes with the material’s less-than-modern views of women. What’s more, the pacing of this two-and-a-half-hour romp is far from a light jog—1963 was not known for its one-act wonders. While at its core a romantic comedy, She Loves Me serves many glaring reminders that it’s a comedy of a different time. 

In light of some less-than-graceful aging in the libretto, an insanely powerful cast works overtime to make old new again.

Brandy Miller soars as Amalia Balash. Miller’s focus is palpably captivating, and her vocal skill is as graceful as it is powerful. A big star shines in this small space when Miller alights on the stage.

Rachel Guth’s spellbinding charisma offers raucous delight in her portrayal of Ilona Ritter. Guth makes the stage a playground for interesting choices, and her vocal prowess demands attention.

Bryce Ancil’s Arpad Laszlo is an absolute joy to watch. When looking at the spunk and gumption that Ancil radiates with such genuine fervor, one can’t help but root for anything he does.

She Loves Me has even more to love with the support of a dedicated creative team. Costume design from Cindy Moon is detailed, sensible, and graceful. An ensemble truly does work best when sensibly dressed.

Lighting design by Benjamin Carne is noteworthy in its rich contrast and sense of depth in such a limited space. Despite more light cues than one would shake a stick at, Carne is a scrutinizing craftsman in the design of each shift.

Sachio Nang plays a tour de force on keyboard along with second keyboard Anna Wegener. Together, Nang and Wegener accompany the entire show quadruple-handedly, in an intimate and exposed arrangement of this Broadway classic.

Blank Theatre Company breathes new life into an old love story, revitalizing the material with their commitment to intimate ensemble storytelling. While the long runtime and small space make for a physically demanding audience experience, phenomenal performances and hearty laughter make for a quaint evening of romantic entertainment. 

She Loves Me runs through May 1st at the Reginald Vaughn Theatre, 1106 W Thorndale Ave. For tickets or more information, please click here.

Photos by Zeke Dolezalek.