Here are five reasons to see this local premiere.
1. A love story that resonates
The central love story between banker Sam Wheat (Montana Iverson) and artist Molly Jensen (Charmien Byrd) strikes a touching chord even if you haven’t seen the film starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore. Sam and Molly’s journey of falling in love yet being separated by death and eventually learning to let go deeply resonates.
“This musical leaves a really nice thought that even though somebody has passed they are still there to protect you and be a guardian angel,” said La Comedia Artistic Director Chris Beiser. “Molly doesn’t want to let go of Sam but there comes a time when she has to let go and move on with her life. I don’t get really emotional during shows but this show really touches the heartstrings.”
Credit: JUSTIN WALTON
Credit: JUSTIN WALTON
2. Real-life couple as doomed lovebirds
Iverson and Byrd appeared in La Comedia’s outstanding 2022 production of “Phantom” and have returned as fiancés. There’s no questioning their inherent chemistry, especially when the handsome Iverson picks up his guitar to offer a laidback, acoustic version of “Unchained Melody.”
“When Montana and Charmien look at each other it’s very real,” Beiser said. “(Their chemistry) comes out very well in their performances.”
As the story escalates, Iverson is believably distressed as Sam is trapped between two worlds, longing to reconnect with Molly while attempting to save her life from danger. Byrd is particularly winning late in Act 1 filling the ballad “With You” with ample heartbreak and yearning.
3. Soulful storefront psychic
La Comedia newcomer Dwan Hayes is a sassy delight as Oda Mae Brown, the kooky Harlem storefront psychic communicating with Sam whether she likes it or not. A natural entertainer and soulful singer, Hayes amplifies the gospel-centric “Are You A Believer” to the hilt greatly assisted with charm and humor by Elana Danielle Elmore (Clara), Sierra Jones (Louise) and big-voiced Wright State University graduate Sam Evans (Mrs. Santiago). She also joyfully ignites the rousing Pointer Sisters-esque anthem “I’m Outta Here” in which Oda Mae dreams of being a millionaire with the chance to scuba in Aruba or Cuba. Even so she doesn’t merely shine in the flashy moments. When Oda Mae allows Sam to inhabit her body late in Act 2, Hayes joins Byrd for a tender embrace that is beautifully heartfelt.
Credit: JUSTIN WALTON
Credit: JUSTIN WALTON
4. Cohesive supporting performances
In addition to Hayes, Elmore, Evans and Jones, notable supporting performances extend to Dylan Jackson showcasing dynamic duality as Sam and Molly’s friend Carl Brunner, Todd Turner as mugger Willie Lopez, Ed Iverson as the amiable Hospital Ghost, and Metropolitan Opera artist Kevin Ray Johnson conveying intimidatingly commanding unease as the angry Subway Ghost, bringing rap/hip-hop to the La Comedia stage with skillful intention in “Focus.” The ensemble includes Max Hunkler, Justin Reilmann, and Meghan Slowik.
5. Broadening the base
As La Comedia enters its 50th anniversary season, “Ghost” represents an opportunity to reach beyond its core base to appeal to new, younger audiences.
“Our reasoning to do ‘Ghost’ was to have an opportunity to do something different, newer, contemporary and edgier,” Beiser said. “We’re trying to see if we can get a new audience, a new perspective. It’s 50 years and it’s time to open a new chapter.”
HOW TO GO
What: “Ghost: The Musical”
When: Thursdays-Sundays through Feb. 9
Where: La Comedia Dinner Theatre, 765 W. Central Ave, Springboro
Cost: $39-$75
More info: 937-746-4554 or lacomedia.com
Credit: JUSTIN WALTON
Credit: JUSTIN WALTON
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