Superbly directed by Anthony Galleran, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, a delightful musical comedy about climbing the corporate ladder, is now playing at the Long Beach Playhouse Mainstage Theatre through Aug. 6.
The late-1950s play— by Abe Burrows, Jack Weinstock and Willie Gilbert, with music and lyrics by Frank Loesser— is tightly written and witty, with catchy songs galore (none excessively long) and a story arc tracing one young man’s quick ascent to the top using the advice of a satirically hilarious how-to-succeed manual (voiced by Mitchell Nunn).
Along the way, all kinds of corporate antics ensue involving competitive backstabbing, secret affairs, nepotism and, of course, the negotiations of love.
Characters are perfectly cast and outfitted to fit their roles in late-1950s/early-1960s styled suits, dresses and hair, and the corporate setting is playfully evoked with turquoise furniture, corded telephones and typewriters.
The two leads especially are excellent.
Steven Alcantar (the young, ambitious Finch) and Monica Beld (perky, marriage-minded Rosemary) embody their pivotal roles impeccably, both in terms of acting and very skilled vocals. Allison Aoun (down-to-earth Smitty) provides a strong supporting role and singing, and Russell Malang creates a remarkably energetic caricature of the boss’s scheming nephew, Bud Frump.
Mallory Kerwin is not to be missed as bombshell Hedy LaRue, playing this over-the-top role with verve as her voluptuous character, simultaneously clueless and savvy, also aspires to get ahead.
The dynamic ensemble cast of workers and management move fluidly through complex stage maneuvers, their collective vitality infectious as they weave through the audience (an interactivity and closeness allowed by U-shaped Mainstage seating that you wouldn’t necessarily get at a venue in LA for a comparable performance).
Choreography by Tanya Thompson is creative and ambitious, and the cast pulls off sophisticated ensemble dance steps with poise.
On top of that, the music is live! Directed by Bill Wolfe, a piano, bass and drum kit lurk behind a painted screen hanging in the boss’s office at the back of the stage.
The production is technically polished as well, with lighting expertly adjusted to match actors’ movements as they circulate the stage, and sound nicely modulated to balance actors’ voices and music, with microphones judiciously employed.
Certain scenes are priceless send-ups, such as during the song “Rosemary,” in which the lovers are framed by two cleaning ladies forming their arms into a heart and a male office worker serving as a reluctant Cupid, sardonically tossing rose petals from a pail.
And while some elements of office life still resonate today (what, no coffee?!), we’re glad to have come a long way from others (no, secretaries are not toys).
Whether or not Finch achieves his goal, How to Succeed in Business more than succeeds as excellent and engaging local entertainment!
How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying is performed at the Long Beach Playhouse Mainstage Theatre, 5021 E. Anaheim St. Shows are Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, and Sundays at 2pm, through Aug. 6.
Tickets are $20-$24. For tickets and information, call the box office at (562) 494-1014, or visit lbplayhouse.org .
