“Love, laughter, and mischief – “The Fantasticks: A Love Story Reimagined” delivers all this and more. This timeless classic, loosely inspired by Edmond Rostand’s 1894 play “The Romancers,” rekindles the magic of romance. With a contemporary twist courtesy of Tom Jones, it transports you into a whimsical realm of love.
Set in a quaint neighborhood, the plot centers on two cunning mothers aiming to orchestrate a romance between their sons, Matt and Lewis (Matt and Louisa in the original story). Their scheme enlists the mysterious El Gallo, paving the way for a delightful comedy of errors, charming encounters, and valuable lessons on love. As young lovebirds, Matt and Lewis navigate separation and eventual reunification, realizing that true love thrives in reality, not youthful fantasies. The wisdom of El Gallo’s words resonates: “Without a hurt, the heart is hollow.”
Director Craig Wells, intimately acquainted with the tale, contemplates the enduring charm of “The Fantasticks.” It was born in 1960, in simpler times, evolving into the longest running off-Broadway musical. Audiences were drawn to its pure portrayal of love’s ebbs and flows. But why reimagine it now? Wells suggests that, in today’s world, embracing love in all its forms remains a challenge. Daily news headlines are marred by fear and discrimination. It could be that our evolution has broadened our acceptance of diverse forms of love within the human experience since 1960.
In CVRep’s vibrant 2023-2024 season, “The Fantasticks: A Love Story Reimagined” is just the beginning. Anticipate the West Coast Premiere of this heartwarming classic, as well as other captivating shows like the World Premiere of “Summer Session with the Bones Brigade,” the cherished “Cabaret” (1998 version), “POTUS: Or Behind Every Great Dumbass Are Seven Women Trying to Keep Him Alive” – a Broadway born political farce transcending party lines – and the timeless musical of George and Ira Gershwin, “Nice Work If You Can Get It.”
Save the dates for “The Fantasticks: A Love Story Reimagined,” gracing the stage from November 1-12, 2023. Performances on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays at 7 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Season subscriptions for the full 2023-2024 season begin at $305, and single tickets range from $50-$88, available online at www.cvrep.org. To purchase call (760) 296-2966, ext. 115, or in person at the CVRep box office at 68510 East Palm Canyon Dr., Cathedral City, open Monday-Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and two hours before showtime.
