Theater Review: COMPANY at the Fabulous Fox Theatre

Growing older can make anyone contemplate their place in life. But in Company, turning 35 causes the protagonist, Bobbie, to evaluate the relationships, friendships, and societal norms surrounding her. Featuring Stephen Sondheim’s Tony award-winning music and lyrics, the national tour explores marriage, loneliness, connection, and the human experience.

The musical is thoroughly Sondheim – complex in lyrics, melodies, and themes. Along with the book by George Furth, Sondheim’s musical elements and plotlines are non-linear creating a back-and-forth that both allows for the audience to delve deeper into the meanings of each line or lyric, but also creates confusion about what is going on in time or place. Forcing the audience to embrace the intellect of their work, Sondheim and Furth shun traditional musical storytelling in favor of exploring the psychological depth of characters through melodic wit.

The musical is character-driven, frequently questioning what society believes each person “should do” while exploring what relationships mean. It’s thoughtful in experimenting with the change in societal norms surrounding marriage, divorce, and being single. This social commentary is wrapped up in witty comedy creating a somewhat disjointed musical that still entertains.

The Company (pun intended) is artistic – skillfully singing Sondheim’s sophisticated and quick lyrics. Working as an ensemble, each character plays a critical role in propelling the story of Bobbie forward. Through their harmonized voices and collective energy, each serves as a reflection of the various relationships that Bobbie interacts with throughout the musical. Particularly standing out is Judy McLane as Joanne singing “The Ladies Who Lunch” with biting jadedness and depth. Matt Rodin is a joy to watch talentedly (and quickly) singing “Getting Married Today.”

The sets are impressive and coordinate well with the style of storytelling. The show is languid in its pacing, feeling a bit overly long as it maneuvers through its acts. However, Company’s heartful moments, intellect, and clever comedy entertain.

See COMPANY at The Fabulous Fox Theatre in St. Louis, now through March 10. For tickets and more information, visit fabulousfox.com.

Photo Credit: Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade