The Arlington Players (TAP) is presenting “She Loves Me” from April 14 to April 30, 2017. Photo contributed.
Girl meets boy, girl hates boy, hate turns to admiration, admiration turns to love. Sound familiar? That’s because “She Loves Me” is an adaptation of “Parfumerie” by Miklos Laszlo. A play originally drafted for the stage in 1937, it has been reincarnated into many a classic hit such as “You’ve Got Mail,” “The Shop Around the Corner,” and “In the Good Old Summertime.”
…a wonderful feel-good musical.
“She Loves Me” tells the story of two rivaling parfumerie workers who without knowing it, are in a courtship with one another via written correspondence. When the two pen pals make plans to finally meet, hilarity ensues and what starts as disdain gives way to love.
Directed by Michael Kharfan, The Arlington Players accomplish a charming adaptation of the hit musical. Both the set and costumes are successful in evoking the romance of the 1930’s. The set, with revolving and detachable scenery pieces, is particularly impressive.
The cast is led by the talented Jolene Vettese and Sam Nystrom who delight as Amalia and Georg, the two spatting lovers. Both actors have strong vocal capabilities, especially Vettese whose role calls for some uncommonly high notes.
The protagonists are supported by a talented ensemble. Particularly of note was Jack Stein as Sipos, another employee of the parfumerie. His comedic timing is superb and he provides a good amount of laughter throughout the show. Similarly, Chuck Dluhy shines as the Head waiter. His time on the stage was brief albeit noteable garnering a lot of laughter and amusement from the audience.
All in all, the show is delightful. A charming story of love and misunderstanding, it is both funny and sweet. Combined with a fantastic score and clever lyrics, it makes for a wonderful feel-good musical.
Running Time: Two hours and 30 minutes long, with one intermission.
“She Loves Me” plays through April 30 at Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre, 125 S. Old Glebe Rd. Arlington, VA 22204. For tickets, purchase them here online.
