Jasmine Forsberg, Beth Leavel, Bernadette Peters, Kate Jennings Grant, Bonnie Langford, Lea Salonga, Maria Wirries, Joanna Riding (Photo: Matthew Murphy)

 

Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends

By Matthew Roland

Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends is a heartfelt farewell love letter to the legendary Stephen Sondheim. The show brings together the finest talents from Broadway and the West End in an unforgettable tribute to one of theatre's most iconic composers and lyricists, celebrating some of his most beloved works.

Leading the production is none other than Sondheim's longtime muse, Bernadette Peters, joined by the incomparable Lea Salonga. Both deliver exquisite performances, pouring passion and reverence into a show that clearly holds deep personal significance for them.

Peters revisits some of her most iconic Sondheim numbers, with a standout moment being her haunting rendition of "Send in the Clowns." The audience was spellbound-so silent during the performance that you could hear a pin drop, which is a testament to the emotional weight and artistry of her delivery.

Salonga's exquisite vocals are the icing on the cake. During the show she transforms seamlessly into two of Sondheim's most iconic leading ladies: Mrs. Lovett from Sweeney Todd and Mama Rose from Gypsy. Her 11 o'clock number, "Everything's Coming Up Roses," showcases her powerful voice and formidable acting skills, adding emotional depth in a show that often leans into the personal rather than purely theatrical.

The revue also features a star-studded ensemble, including Tony nominees Bonnie Langford and Gavin Lee, and Tony Award winner Beth Leavel-each delivering show-stopping moments. Fourteen other remarkable performers round out the cast, each shining in their own right.

Director Matthew Bourne, known for his elaborate and imaginative stagings, takes a more restrained approach here, allowing the focus to remain where it truly belongs - on the performers and most importantly Sondheim's music. This subtle direction is beautifully supported by a simple yet effective multi-layered set design by Matt Kinley, which seamlessly transports us into iconic scenes from Sondheim's musicals.

Jacob Dickey, Bernadette Peters (Photo: Matthew Murphy)

The design also thoughtfully showcases the exquisite bandstand, drawing well-deserved attention to the fantastic orchestra, masterfully conducted by Musical Director Annbritt duChateau. Jill Parker's costumes bring glitz and glamour to the revue, with stunning gowns and sharp suits that elevate the entire company. She adds vibrant pops of color and character through her fresh interpretations of iconic looks from West Side Story, Sweeney Todd, and Into the Woods, blending tribute with originality.

That said, some moments in the production felt a touch too tongue-in-cheek, occasionally veering into cheesy territory as if trying to force laughter and reaction from the audience rather than letting it come naturally. However, the show truly soared when it fully immersed us in scenes from Sondheim's classic musicals, allowing the music and performances to speak for themselves.

Jeremy Secomb, Lea Salonga (Photo: Matthew Murphy)

Producer Cameron Mackintosh faced the near-impossible task of curating a setlist from Sondheim's vast catalog, but he pulled it off with apparent ease, managing to satisfy even the most devoted Sondheim fans.

Ultimately, the beauty of Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends lies not only in its unforgettable performances but in its intimacy. The performers don't just sing-they share. They bare their souls on stage to honor and thank a true legend of the theatre world.

Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends

At the Samuel J. Friedman Theater

261 West 47^th St.

Running time: 2:35 including intermission

Tickets: https://www.telecharge.com/EventOverview?productId=14436

Through June 15