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Regional Reviews: Phoenix The Scarlet Pimpernel Also see Gil's reviews of Into the Woods and A Klingon Hamlet
Based on the novel by by Baroness Orczy, and set during the French Revolution, the plot follows English nobleman Sir Percy Blakeney, who appears to be a vain and foolish dandy but is secretly the daring and clever Scarlet Pimpernel. Percy rescues French aristocrats from the guillotine, all while maintaining his cover and struggling with his love for his French wife Marguerite, whose mysterious past and potential betrayal threaten their relationship. With the ruthless French agent Chauvelin, whom Marguerite has a past with, determined to unmask the Pimpernel, the stakes rise, leading to a thrilling game of wits and a story steeped in the strength of loyalty. Composer Frank Wildhorn and lyricist/bookwriter Nan Knighton crafted a lush and melodically rich score, with soaring ballads, rousing anthems, and clever character numbers. The musical's world of revolution, disguise, and daring heroics are all brought to life with elegance and flair and a whole lot of humor in Knighton's book. The musical first opened on Broadway in 1997 and, after some early challenges and low ticket sales, underwent significant revisions during its run. These changes tightened the storytelling and improved the pacing, helping transform the show into a rousing musical comedy. As Percy, Nick Gunnell exudes wit, charisma, and stunning vocals, effortlessly shifting between the foppish persona of Blakeney and the swashbuckling daring of the Pimpernel in a mesmerizing, well thought out, crowd-pleasing performance. Marguerite is portrayed with grace and strength by Amanda Valenzuela, her voice soaring through the emotional highs and dramatic lows of her songs and scenes. As Chauvelin, Cameron Rollins is a commanding presence, exuding menace and a deep passion to his cause, making him a worthy adversary for Percy both emotionally and intellectually. Rollins also choreographed an impressive sword fight sequence with Gunnell. Armand St. Just, Marguerite's brother, is played with heartfelt conviction and a huge dose of the exuberant energy of youth by Joseph Strode. Armand is torn between loyalty to his family and the cause of the revolution. The actors portraying the League of the Scarlet Pimpernel (Zac Bushman, Reece Harris, Kevin Orduño, Truman Regard-Whipple, Ryan Monaghan, and Joshua South) bring camaraderie and sharp comic timing to their roles, creating an endearing team of unlikely heroes. As Marie, a French noblewoman who aids the League, Nikki Reeves adds warmth and sincerity to the story in her few scenes, while Justin Howell, Raymond Barcelo, Evan Kaushesh, and Declan Skaggs round out the cast in a few small and fun supporting parts. The female ensemble of Gracie Gamble, Ava Cusiter, Diana Stapley, Krista Monaghan, Brianna McClure, and Carmiña Monserrat shine as a seemingly endless number of characters. Cambrian James' direction smartly leans into the comedic flourishes while never shortchanging the deeper romantic and political tensions. The music direction by Cathy Hauan delivers impressive vocals from the entire cast. Creative elements, from richly detailed period costumes by Brielle Hawkes (which also include some rentals), to James' gorgeous wigs, and dynamic lighting by Ryan Fallis along with lush, period scenic elements from McKenna Carpenter, transport the audience to revolutionary France with flair. The lush, period-perfect creative aspects and inventive staging add an immersive cinematic quality that enhances the storytelling while creating numerous impressive stage images; the dark orange and red lighting during the guillotine scenes and the bright, blue tones in the final swashbuckling segment, set against the large set elements for both, are quite impressive. Hale's production of The Scarlet Pimpernel is a thrilling, comical, and charmingly heartfelt theatrical experience. With strong performances, polished direction, and evocative creative elements, it captures the full spirit of this daring tale and reminds us why Baroness Orczy's novel has been the basis for so many film, TV, and stage adaptations. The Scarlet Pimpernel runs through June 28, 2025, at Hale Centre Theatre, 50 W. Page Avenue, Gilbert AZ. For tickets and information, please visit www.haletheatrearizona.com or call 480-497-1181 Producers and Casting Directors: David and Corrin Dietlein Cast: |
