Savannah Stevenson, Paul Rescigno, Constantine Pappas, Molly Model Photo courtesy of Seven Angels Theatre

It is the quality of the score which helps keep the show buoyant, as well the spirited performances by the entire cast. The production itself is on the minimalist side (scenic design by David Goldstein), with various set pieces brought on for each scene. With capable direction and choreography by Robert Mintz, Lucky Stiff at Seven Angels Theatre is a modestly entertaining show which makes for a decidedly pleasant evening of theatre.

Based on the novel "The Man Who Broke the Bank at Monte Carlo," by Michael Butterworth, the plot is on the frenetic side, with a great deal of mistaken identities and plenty of door slamming befitting the farce-like story, as the characters all try to attain six million dollars in jewels.

The production is blessed to have Constantine Pappas as the leading character, Harry Witherspoon. Employing an English accent, Pappas carries the show with easygoing charm and confidence, anchoring the whole production. After seeing Pappas do outstanding work in a supporting part in last season's production of Master Class at Music Theatre of Connecticut, it is a pleasure to see him shine in a leading role, employing a strong singing voice and displaying definite comedic talent.

All of the main performers do well in this show. As the dog-loving character Annabel Glick, Molly Model is excellent, and she lights up the stage with such lovely songs as "Times Like These" and the duet "Nice," which she shares with Pappas. Also making a strong impression is the brassy Savannah Stevenson, who is a riot in the role of the extremely nearsighted and slightly scatterbrained Rita. Stevenson gets two of the best numbers, "Rita's Confession" and the funny "Fancy Meeting You Here," which she puts over wonderfully.

Portraying Rita's put upon brother Vinnie, the terrific Paul Rescigno nearly stops the show with the song "The Phone Call," as he tries to calm his wife down on the phone even as his own life is falling apart. In supporting roles, Abby McGough sparkles in the zesty song "Speaking French," and Zayaz DaCamara is great in the mysterious role of Luigi. Rick Fountain is ideal in the part of Harry's deceased uncle, who even gets a nifty tap dance in a nightmare sequence in the second act.

The costume design by Thomas D. Gordon helps to establish each of the characters' personalities, and the lighting design by Sam Terrell is atmospheric and often striking. Best of all, the fantastic music director Aaron Benham leads the offstage orchestra, making all of Stephen Flaherty's music sound as crisp and polished as possible.

The real trump card of Seven Angels Theatre's staging of Lucky Stiff is the opportunity to hear the first Ahrens and Flaherty score in a lightweight but enjoyable production, which should satisfy fans of these songwriters' work. Combined with the fine cast and the overall slapstick nature of the show, Lucky Stiff offers more than a bit of fun and, quoting the title of one of the songs, makes for a nice theatregoing experience.

Lucky Stiff runs through October 12, 2025, at Seven Angels Theatre, 1 Plank Rd, Waterbury CT. For tickets and information, please call 203-757-4676 or visit www.sevenangelstheatre.org .